I think something is wrong with my flock

[dolfi]

I have a couple of months that one or two chickens die on me. They are OK and suddenly die over night. My flock has grown and now I have polish that I don't want to loose. The thing is that I have been complaining about two roosters that comes from a neighbor but can't get them away. My flock don't free range but I still feel that they should be kept away. The thing is that today I saw one laying around and when I checked him it has running nose. So time to worry. What can I do to prevent more deaths. I know I have a problem. Just not how big

 

[Angiebubs]

I would find out if you have a state vet lab (Check local extension office or university to find out) and see if you can send in a fecal sample.The tests are pretty inexpensive ($21 for my area) and it can help to rule out or pinpoint if there are any issues such as worms, cocci, salmonella, etc. Good luck!!

 

[cafarmgirl]

It's very possible that the visiting neighbor roosters brought along some kind of respiratory disease, especially if they are showing symptoms. But chickens who develop a respiratory disease usually are not fine one day and dead the next, they shows signs of illness. I agree it would be a good idea to have a fecal sample from your flock tested to check for worms or high levels of coccidia. Also check them over carefully for external parasites like lice and mites. Coccidiosis is a fast killer but birds usually are lethargic and might have diarrhea before they pass. Worms and external parasites can weaken a bird, cause weight loss and general poor condition and eventually death.

Edited to add: If you have another bird die it would be very helpful to you to have a necropsy done by a vet or especially a state lab so you can find out what's going on. Some state labs will do it for free.

 

[dolfi]

Thanks