Chick with completely limp leg

[IcarusSomnio]

I let the momma hen sit with her young in the coop (normally she sleeps with the ducks) and when I let everyone out this morning, I noticed a chick had trouble walking. First I thought he was caught on something but nope, the leg is COMPLETELY limp. From the toes all the way up.

I flexed and moved the leg (no complaints, moved fine). Checked for any broken bones, couldn't find any. Checked the spine, feels straight and normal. Other leg is strong, wings are fine. He's just hopping along right now, cheeping and giving me the evil eye.


Did the momma hen maybe squish him on accident? A duck perhaps (they where roaming the yard) before lockup last night?


What should I do? Splint it? Leave it? Leg was strong yesterday, and I didn't examine everyone last night. Just a head count, then lockup. Other chicks are hopping about without a problem.


Edit: Chick is eating, drinking, and hopping around on one leg. He appears to be holding the bad leg up so I don't think it's a joint problem.

 

[IcarusSomnio]

Lil' bump

 

[honeydoll]

Hmmm....sounds like a possible injusry. Maybe Momma did squish him a little. Hope someone can give you advice on splint/no splint. If he is eating and drinking he'll probably be ok, just give it a few days.

 

[mmaddie's mom]

If you can't find anything broken, then there is nothing to splint. Since he is eating and drinking and hopping around, I would just let him recover for a few days and he may, little by little, start using it again. Good luck with the baby.

 

[JessWithChicks]

I'm curious what ever happened to your little chick. We have one doing the exact same thing. It's been 4 days now with zero improvement. Not sure what to do about her. Thanks!!