Hello. We are raising our first-ever batch of chicks (currently 3 1/2 weeks old), and overall having a wonderful time of it. BUT, we have one silver-laced Wyandotte that seems to be having some sort of a skin problem or possibly something gone awry with her feathers growing in OR she may have just been picked on really badly. I noticed the other chickens pecking at her 4-5 mornings ago, but hadn't noticed it the day before - I suppose it's possible that it was going on and I didn't notice it, but I don't think so. I don't know if she was hurt from being pecked or if she was being pecked because she was sick. She also seemed pretty lethargic, and wasn't really trying to get away. Anyway, I immediately isolated her from the group. She slept for several hours - seemed just tuckered out. She's been up and about since though, but she is having alot of oozing - It's worst in the center of her back, but there's also some on her chest. (I put some antibiotic ointment on the bad areas.) My husband looked under her wings and thought she might even look bruised. She also seems to have some dandruff-type flakes elsewhere that makes me think her skin might be dry. NEVER any bleeding. And, otherwise, she seems fine - eating and drinking normally, normal-looking excrement, active, etc. She was content for the first several days, but is starting to chirp more and loudly now, and jumping up and trying to get out of the large tub she is in. Her skin overall doesn't look much better, and is still oozy with stiff, sticky feathers. I am afraid to put her back with the others for fear that they will peck her more since she still doesn't look quite right, and I'm also concerned that she may have some sort of infectious illness that will make the others sick. Then there's the worry that if I keep her on her own for much longer, I don't know how well the rest of the flock will receive her. I would sure appreciate any advice you more experienced chicken caretakers can offer! Many thanks for your time!!!
