Bloody Hole in Beak - 4 week old

[YellowRoseFarm]

Hi all,

I searched and searched for the answer to this, and there doesn't seem to be any consensus on what can cause this. My 4-week-old Lavender Orpington developed a hole in its beak overnight. I've seen no signs of bullying by the other chicks. He doesn't seem interested in sticking his beak out of the hardware cloth. I don't have a metal feeder (it's plastic). I'm at a loss. I noticed it one day after another chick sneezed twice within a few minutes, and some clear liquid came out. I haven't seen her do it since, and I suspect it was because my [insert expletive here] neighbor was burning a HUGE pile of trash in his yard, and we were all not breathing so easily.

Some facts that may or may not be relevant:

• Chicks were purchased from Atwoods, supplied by Meyer Hatchery.
• This particular chick is way behind in development but is nevertheless still developing.
• He's one of 4 LOs I got from the straight-run bin, and I suspect he and 2 others are cockerels. (Holding out hope that I have at least 1 pullet!).
• He's eating and drinking normally.
• I had just cleaned the brooder a couple of days prior to this, but I went ahead and cleaned it out again with new bedding, water, food, etc.
• Food is stored in our metal shop and I have desiccants in there (protected, can't break and get into food) to prevent moisture (I'm in Texas and it's hot and humid).
• I gave electrolytes and probiotics.

Any ideas? Thanks!

 

[Shabby Chic-Hens]

@Overo Mare might know?

 

[Mary Poopins Love]

My Delaware Mary Poopins got this. Apply liquid bandage to the wound. Make sure not to cover her nostrils

 

[YellowRoseFarm]

My Delaware Mary Poopins got this. Apply liquid bandage to the wound. Make sure not to cover her nostrils

Mary Poopins. Best. Name. Ever.

Thanks for this!