Adult rooster exhibits wry neck when startled

[briarandwillow]

Like the title says...

I walked into the coop to turn bedding and add more sweet pdz to freshen everything up. The rooster in question was startled by the rake I was carrying and flopped onto his belly with his head bent all the way back. He was watching me the whole time. When I leaned down to give him a gentle nudge, he popped right up and went back to his business of scratching and pecking.

I have separated him from the flock and he is very distressed by the separation, but eating and drinking normally. He has not exhibited any further symptoms, nor have I given him any supplements yet as I haven't been able to go into town today to grab some.

Any more experienced chicken wranglers wish to weigh in? Maybe a head injury? Should I keep him separated and see what further symptoms present?

The only abnormality I have noticed is he is a bit pink between the toes, which is not normal for him as he has slate legs.

 

[Wyorp Rock]

If he's really stressed by the separation, I would put him back with his flock and just observe him.
Not sure what happened their, maybe it was a defense reflex? Thought he was being attacked or something? Speculation on my part.

Photos of the feet if you have them - likely hormones if pinkish.

 

[briarandwillow]

He is pinkish between the toes! Noted that when I removed him, thinking it might be an early sign of bumblefoot as his legs and feet are slate

 

[briarandwillow]

Please pardon the leaf litter this is the dog run that I put him in in case he was sick or injured.

 

[Wyorp Rock]

Looks normal to me.

 

[briarandwillow]

I ran the whole wry neck episode by the vet out of an abundance of caution and they agreed with your assessment that it sounded like a defense reflex.