Ceres covering nostril openings gone

[path.otto]

I was trimming my hens' nails today, taking advantage of the pleasant weather. I was looking at one of the Barred Rocks and asked myself, "why can I see inside her nostril?" I realized that the cere (took me a while to find out what the tissue covering the nostrils is called) is gone - on both sides. I must admit I've never really had cause to examine their nostrils so I don't know if she ever had them, but I assume she did.

Does anyone have any idea what might have caused this? Is this a major issue? I will try and post a photo tomorrow but I decided I traumatised them enough for one day with the trimming.

 

[aart]

Is there a wound(s)?
If it's not bothered her, probably not an issue.
Looking forward to seeing pics.

 

[path.otto]

Is there a wound(s)?
If it's not bothered her, probably not an issue.
Looking forward to seeing pics.

No wound, aart, just not there. I wondered if the other chickens had done it by pecking, but I would have noticed that if there had been any blood or other signs of bullying. I'm with them several times a day. It doesn't appear to be bothering her.

 

[path.otto]

I had to go out and change the timer on the pop door so thought I'd try to grab a photo or two while I was there. The right nostril is clearer but the left enlarges well. Frostbite?

 

[aart]

Frostbite?

Nah, I doubt it....frostbite hits the higher points, literally the point on the combs, first.