Black Specks on RIR comb. Why?

[cowboyclayt]

I noticed some black specks on my RIR hens combs. I don't think they fight. I never notice it when I am outside and around them. What could it be?

Thanks!

 

[PD-Riverman]

I noticed some black specks on my RIR hens combs. I don't think they fight. I never notice it when I am outside and around them. What could it be?

Thanks!

Fowl Pox---Look it up.

 

[RoostersAreAwesome]

Please post a picture

 

[Wyorp Rock]

Photos will be helpful.

 

[chickengeorgeto]

Minute black spots on a chicken's face or comb is likely mosquito bites. Becoming frightened and flying into the overhead wire, minor peck fights, bug bites and fowl pox are usually why chickens have black specks on their head gear. Do remember that mosquitoes spread fowl pox so keep your guard up against mosquitoes. Remember to vaccinate against fowl pox.

 

[cowboyclayt]

Thanks everybody! I looked up fowl pox and am pretty sure it is not that @chickengeorgeto, they are pretty minute so I think it is mosquitos. How do I guard against mosquitos? I don't vaccinate my chickens.

 

[kat salamon]

3 out of 4 of my girls have these black marks. Is it peck marks? They are all laying now and get mad when "their" box is taken that they prefer. The one that doesn't have them is the dominant one. Thank you!

 

[Wyorp Rock]

3 out of 4 of my girls have these black marks. Is it peck marks? They are all laying now and get mad when "their" box is taken that they prefer. The one that doesn't have them is the dominant one. Thank you!

Hi @kat salamon
Your hen looks like she has Fowl Pox. It will usually resolve itself in several weeks, but you can apply some Iodine to the scabs to help them dry up.

Here's some additional reading for you:
http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/2015/07/fowl-pox-prevention-treatment.html

 

[Onkachonk]

Hi all,
I'm new to BYC (as well as owning chickens). I noticed some similar spots on my 8 wk old's comb today also. Her behavior is normal and she doesn't appear to feel sick. Does her comb also look like it may signs of fowl pox? I live in New Orleans, LA so mosquitos are a big problem here. Also, should she be separated from my other two pullets? Thanks in advance for your help!

 

[kat salamon]

Hi @kat salamon
Your hen looks like she has Fowl Pox. It will usually resolve itself in several weeks, but you can apply some Iodine to the scabs to help them dry up.

Here's some additional reading for you:
http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/2015/07/fowl-pox-prevention-treatment.html

Thank you! I will check it out.