2 DEAD birds in one week. Why? FBCMs

[Heyruthie]

I started with 14 chicks this spring, so now they are young birds, all of whom are between 12 and 16 weeks of age. ( wound up with 12 pullets and two roosters.) However, in the last week, I have lost two pullets, both of them French Black Copper Marans. They Died a week apart. The other types that I have are Easter Eggers and golden comets, and they seem fine. However, I didn't detect any problems with the black copper Marans either. Upon inspection after they died, they seemed a little thin, but that is all I can detect. It is hot here. Could it be heat stroke? They do have shade. But maybe I am not keeping them cool enough. Do French black copper Marans Fair poorly in the heat? If it is disease, is there something I can look for? I can't detect any problems. But I'm also not giving them any type of vitamins or medication of any kind. Maybe I need to start.

 

[SunHwaKwon]

It could be the heat. If they are related it could be something inherited.

 

[SunHwaKwon]

If it's really hot I give mine an electrolyte supplement by Rooster Booster. They also appreciate some cold melons and berries, even a cheapo generic bag of frozen berries. I was thinking of getting a mister for them.

 

[Eggcessive]

Were they showing any symptoms before they died, such as lethargy or runny poops? Could they have been kept from water or food by the others during the day? Do they go outside to free range, and do they have plenty of shade and shaded water all day?

 

[Kiki]

Coccidiosis MAYBE.

Need a bit more info.


How is their poop?

 

[Eggcessive]

Here is a list of state vets to get a necropsy for any other deaths, but refrigerate the body first:
http://www.metzerfarms.com/PoultryLabs.cfm