"Grey Fuzz" at base of chicken feathers under rump area - what is it?

[lifthiminsong]

I went out to check on my girls and noticed one of them huddled down in the corner (looked to be egg bound). She didn't move even when I threw out the afternoon scratch grains, so I knew it was serious.

I brought her in and immediately placed her in a sink of warm water while massaging her to help pass an egg. I felt nothing unusual, but did notice a small handful of feathers (maybe 5-6) that had a grey fuzzy matter caked around the base of each. It would not wash away, so I cut those feathers off. It looks almost like moldy poop, but I don't think it is.

Any idea what this is? I have not yet thoroughly examined her whole body to see if it's elsewhere simply because I want to allow her to rest quietly while she "does her thing" to recover and pass this egg (if that's even the true issue).

Thanks so much!

 

[lifthiminsong]

Well, after doing a search online, viewing other images, I now see this are lice eggs! CRAP!!!

Please tell me the EASIEST way to treat this! I have eleven hens and one roo, three dogs, a cat and six children, so simple is best!

Thanks!

 

[animallover505]

More dust baths, a poultry lice and mite powder