feces in tail feathers

[namolinari]

Hi all,
I have been carefully watching my favorite hen (Rafeala) for the past few days because she has white feces stuck in her feathers. This morning I attempted to wipe it off with a warm moist paper towel and was surprised to find that there were actually chunks of feces stuck in there-- much like chicken dreadlocks. I couldn't get everything out because she began to get impatient. I also noticed that she was trying to clean up the spot, but couldn't reach it.

Any thoughts as to why she is having this problem?? Is it possible to cut a few of the feathers from the problem area?

Thank you!
Here's a picture of Raf.

 

[namolinari]

I have been watching her for the last few hours and she seems to be opening her mouth like she needs to yawn (not too frequently) and she seems to pecking at things and missing. I haven't noticed this before. Not sure if the additional info will be useful....
Thanks again!