Comb Frostbite - ventilation problem?

[rossco17]

Good point. I assumed frost bite, but I'm a new owner so I don't really know. Pictures below. Head feathers a little greasy from petroleum jelly. Also, I noticed today that there is blood on the feeder where their combs hit when the peck. i can move this thread to another category if needed.

 

[junebuggena]

Looks like frostbite to me. Definitely get those roosting-level windows closed up, and open up the walls at the roofline. Ventilation needs to be above roosting level.

 

[TalkALittle]

Looks like frostbite to me. Definitely get those roosting-level windows closed up, and open up the walls at the roofline. Ventilation needs to be above roosting level.

I agree.

 

[TalkALittle]

I'd probably remove the top roost too, if they're all roosting on one roost anyway.

 

[rossco17]

I'd probably remove the top roost too, if they're all roosting on one roost anyway.

I was considering this. Is 4 feet of roosting bar enough room for 6 chickens? They're only 6 months old - will they grow any more? They seem like big fat hens now...

 

[TalkALittle]

I was considering this. Is 4 feet of roosting bar enough room for 6 chickens? They're only 6 months old - will they grow any more? They seem like big fat hens now...

Sorry, I had thought it was a 6'roost. If only 4' then best to keep both.

 

[rossco17]

I have lowered the roost, closed the windows up (I'll put up plexiglass for natural light when I have more time), and drilled fourteen 2" holes in the gables (7 on each side).

I hope this helps. I really appreciate everyone's advice.
--Ross

 

[junebuggena]

I have lowered the roost, closed the windows up (I'll put up plexiglass for natural light when I have more time), and drilled fourteen 2" holes in the gables (7 on each side).

I hope this helps. I really appreciate everyone's advice.
--Ross

Remember to cover those holes with hardware cloth.

 

[rossco17]

Remember to cover those holes with hardware cloth.

Yes. Done. Thanks again.

 

[rossco17]

Looks like frostbite to me. Definitely get those roosting-level windows closed up, and open up the walls at the roofline. Ventilation needs to be above roosting level.

Perhaps I should be cutting more holes along the roof line (under the eaves). As of now, I have the holes just at the peak... should I cut a bunch more along the entire roof line on both sides? Finding the right balance between ventilation and drafts isn't easy!