Bloody and missing feathers around ear

[lablover]

First off, yesterday was the hottest day so far at 105* F. Yesterday evening, I noticed this EE chicken (3 months old) ducking her beak towards her throat as high up as she could get it, and messing with her feathers like she was scratching. Late last night, while the flock (6) were in the chicken tractor, they were still panting and looking a bit uncomfortable. I didn't notice anything strange when I turned them out this morning, and she has been running around with the flock and doing their usual things. When I brought them out some fruit, I noticed this bald spot! First, I panicked! I put them in the coop and got my camera, and then noticed a few tiny drops of blood on the ladder leading up to the nest box. The ladder is under the roosts. This bald spot doesn't look to have any open cuts, but I haven't been able to get my hands on the bird yet. She has been with the flock for about a month now I guess, and is the lowest ranked. Could she have been pecked, did something bite her, or is something wrong with her?

 

[CMV]

Looks like a scrape. It could be from picking, but it really doesn't look like it. I would Blukote it (and Swat it if flies are a problem in your area). Once it is hidden she should be able to go back to the flock. I would take some time for Chicken TV and monitor the flock to see if someone is picking on her. It doesn't look like picking, but it pays to be thorough.

Good luck.

 

[lablover]

I actually don't have any of that blue stuff as these are my first chickens, and no place in town sells chicken stuff, but I know that I need it. I can put swat on it though. Should I separate her tonight?

 

[CMV]

It would be a good idea. If the others see that wound they may start picking at her.