Does persistently damp head mean illness? Help please!

[JennyJ2000]

Hi All,


We live in London UK and have two laying hens: a Lohmann Brown and a Cream Legbar. For the past week, my Cream Legbar, Tilly, has had damp, matted plumage on her head only. At first I thought she had just stuck her head under the waterer but the feathers haven't dried. I thought she might have an eye infection, but her eyes look normal and I don't see any fluid seeping from anywhere, crusting, anything of that nature. She's laying an egg everyday or so and otherwise seems fine but I'm really stumped by the persistently wet head and am now a bit worried that she has some mysterious illness.


The Lohmann Brown doesn't exhibit the same symptom.


What is causing this please and what can I do about it?

Thank you kindly for your advice.

 

[sourland]

She appears to be in excellent condition. It's almost like she got her crest into something oily or muddy.

 

[JennyJ2000]

She appears to be in excellent condition. It's almost like she got her crest into something oily or muddy.

Hi there. Thanks for your reply. I do hope it's as simple as that. If that's the case, would you recommend that we attempt to wash her off with soap of some sort, or will she be okay as she is? I wouldn't want her little head to be cold in the mild and windy weather.

 

[Boppo]

Glad to meet you, Jenny. I hope things turn out well for your beautiful Legbar. I also enjoyed spotting that handsome little border terrier. Does the dog get on well with the chickens? Best wishes with your flock and your plans!