Help - why did 2 of my Barred Rocks suddenly die?

[jensp]

Any help would be so appreciated. Our small flock of barred rocks are free range and we have them trained to come in at night where they are secured in their run.

Two days ago we found 1 hen dead in her run. Absolutely nothing wrong with her. She was fine just hours before when they followed us to the garden.

Yesterday evening we found another hen dead in the run. Same thing, healthy one minute and gone the next.

These hens were part of our family and I can't think of loosing the rest.

Some thoughts. I found them feasting on some maggots 2 weeks ago. Could this be it?

The two that died had a little poo stuck to their rear. About the size of a ping pong ball.

Any thoughts?

Many thanks!

 

[Hangin Wit My Peeps]

I don't think it would be the maggots...did you check their poo for worms. I wish I could help you out more but not sure...I just know it's prob not the maggots. What was it that the maggots were on?

Sorry for your lose, that would be hard. Now wondering if there will be more. How old are your hens?

 

[Zuesdude]

Sorry to hear about your loss.

The poo stuck to thier vent maybe a sign that they are cloged up and backed up I had that happen to one of mind and I washed her exterior vent with warm water.

When chickens free range they can eat anything and do! If a chicken can get it in thier mouth they will eat it.