Daytime drowziness?

[Jeffross1968]

Ok, that makes me feel more comfortable. Thanks for all the great replies!

 

[jjthink]

Quote:
When I used to put out both layer and game bird maintenance, my roo automatically chose the game bird feed. If a hen eats it, I've never seen a downside to that, though important to keep oyster shell available to her at all times so she can get the calcium she needs.

JJ

 

[Jeffross1968]

I've never really watched our chickens after dark. But having just seen something, I was wondering...do they "squat" on the roost when they sleep, or stand up? Roostie has been drowsy almost every early evening since my post, and just now, when I looked in, he was next to one of my hens on the roost, but squatting down. Never saw this before. Normal?

 

[jjthink]

I don't think I've seen them do anything other than eventually squat when they are about to fall asleep......
My feathered friends opt for a sleeping shelf that I have covered in pine shavings. They lie down on that (or really squat, I guess you could say).
JJ

 

[Jeffross1968]

Ok, well...I've just never seen him this tired, as early as it has been, for the last 4 days or so. I've caught him sleeping late afternoon, standing next to the feeder, while the rest are out free ranging. Very strange behavior, though, admittedly, we've only been chicken owners for a few weeks

 

[jjthink]

It's really good that you are being so observant. There may well be something wrong with him. I hope not, but there may be. He could be struggling with some ailment so maximum nutrition right now is key. If you can, tomorrow order some Rooster Booster or Avia Charge 2000 on line and press to get a near-term delivery date. These are nutritional supplements that may help him and in any case, are really good to help keep birds healthy. I have the Avia and put a little in the drinking water for my birds, every day for years now. One jar lasts a really long time. Mix to a light iced tea color for maximum acceptance by the birds. Maybe just maybe you can get Rooster Booster locally somewhere - call around - then you can get him started on it right away. For one or two days a month switch off to water with ACV (get Bragg's apple cider vinegar 'with the mother') and mix 1 teaspoon or so per gallon of water and serve in ceramic or plastic or something that day that isn't metal.
Please keep us posted. I'm concerned and will be thinking about your roo.
JJ