HI from Melbourne Australia

[Davideau]

Hi guys,
Found this site and its soooooo helpful. I am new to backyard chickens and loving the experience.
I do have a really important question. I had a hen that all of a sudden got a purple comb and got sick very quickly and then we had to put her down. Regretfully
Now a few weeks later another hen looks miserable. Comb going dark, one eye closed not moving around much. It’s so sad. My little boy is on a daily watch.
I clean the pen every week or fortnight, the only thing I can think of is that wild birds are getting into the food and water? Is this a massive concern? I don’t want to get more chickens if this continues to happen
I give them food scraps and good quality chicken pellets? I can only think they are contracting a disease from the wild birds?
Any suggestions?
Thanks loads
Davide

 

[TwoCrows]

Welcome to BYC!

You do not want wild birds getting into the chickens water or feed. They do carry diseases that can kill your birds. So do your best to keep them out.

Lots of things cause a comb to turn purple and many times this happens just before death as well. You might want to post this question in our emergency section here on BYC for a lot more input on this issue...

https://www.backyardchickens.com/f/10/emergencies-diseases-injuries-and-cures

Someone there should be able to help you with this problem. I am so sorry you are having these troubles.

 

[Davideau]

Thanks loads. I have done that

much appreciated.

 

[Mr MKK FARMS]

 

[Kelsie2290]

Hello and Welcome To BYC! Sorry about your two hens, hope you are able to fix the problem.

 

[drumstick diva]

you may also want to post on the aussie thread "Australia, six states and one funny little Island." They may know of some illness going around.

 

[gander007]