Are Hen’s Spurs too Big?

[Mebrou]

Curious if these spurs are preventing my hen from roosting or it’s a different reason. I’m not sure if they’re too long or causing her any issues, doesn’t seem to be, but this particular hen never roosts. She always lays in the nest boxes or the ground so I’m constantly washing her vent area. I will note that she may have an old mating injury (she was the roosters favorite and she’s petite) so I just always suspected it was never comfortable for her to roost after that. But looking at the spurs I’m curious if they have anything to do with it. I may clip the tips off as I think I can see the quick good enough- if that’s recommended. I just don’t like messing with her too much because she seems so frail.

Any advice is appreciated!

Thank you!

 

[Debbie292d]

I've never seen a hen with spurs like that, but given that I only raise silkies, and most the roosters don't even have them, that explains that!

Roosters roost with spurs, so doubt that's her issue.

But, for trimming, we use a small Dremel type kit that's meant for fingernails. We use that on a crossbeak and it works well. You could try taking a little bit off, but my guess is she's just one that would rather not roost. We get a couple like that now and then with no explanation as to why.

She looks like a big girl. Is she the same as the others? You might try a roost closer to the ground for her.

 

[rosemarythyme]

They don't look too long but you can still safely clip them and see if that helps any. I use dog nail trimmers to snip off the tips.

 

[Mebrou]

I've never seen a hen with spurs like that, but given that I only raise silkies, and most the roosters don't even have them, that explains that!

Roosters roost with spurs, so doubt that's her issue.

But, for trimming, we use a small Dremel type kit that's meant for fingernails. We use that on a crossbeak and it works well. You could try taking a little bit off, but my guess is she's just one that would rather not roost. We get a couple like that now and then with no explanation as to why.

She looks like a big girl. Is she the same as the others? You might try a roost closer to the ground for her.

Neither have we. We’ve had many hens and never spurs like these. She’s actually the smallest one we have, a prairie bluebelll egger. I may try at least clipping/dremmeling the tips. Thanks!

 

[BigBlueHen53]

She's pretty!

 

[Mebrou]

She's pretty!

Thank you! She’s a sweet girl.