Checking for frostbite -- need a quick answer

[bigclucker]

I have a chance to add what appear to be (from photos) 3 healthy New Hampshire Reds to my flock tomorrow. The seller lives about 30 minutes away.

I have 12 hens already, plan on keeping these 3 separate for a week or so. They are about the same age as what I have (20-30 wk old RIR, BA).

How do I check for frostbite? I've done some reading, but it always seems you folks do a better job explaining. Also, any other dead giveaways/red flags for health problems?

The seller hasn't given me a reason to distrust, I just want to make sure I'm doing the best I can to add to my flock.

Thanks in advance for reading and responding.

 

[jeslewmazer]

I'm not sure about frostbite. I would say check things like weight and size (you know not to thin), sneezing, coughing, mites, sluggishness, color, feathers should look good (unless in molt), and there are plenty more. If you have a friend that has a good knowledge base you might see if he/she would go with you or look over them when you get back. Wash your hands after handling the newbies so not to contaminate the original. To prevent contamination of yard, clean bottom of shoes (a 10% bleach solution works) and if you want change clothes (because you have probly touched the newbies to your clothes). Sorry for the ramble.
Hopefully someone else can help more.

 

[AK-Bird-brain]

I'd be more worried about their health and the cleanliness of the coop they are currently in. If they live in filth they are likely to be sick, there is a big differance between "I haven't had a chance to clean the coop this week" and a coop pigs wouldn't want to sleep in.
Frostbite will showup as white to black tips of combes (blackest at tips fading to whit farther down). The combs will also feel cold and stiff. Same thing on toes. Frostbite will not effect the birds overall health unless it goes untreated then it can become infected and turn into gangrene.

 

[The Sheriff]

Quarantine is typically 30 days though, not a week or so. Good luck.

 

[bigclucker]

Thanks for all the tips. I did a little more reading late last night and took your advice ... I think I got lucky. The birds all fit the description of good health. Very nice, got all 3 for $25.