I’m an Idiot - Flock Feeling Thin and Combs Fading?

[micstrachan]

Even at my local feed store they sometimes get a pallet of feed that is what I would consider old.

You only have a few birds if I recall.
You will always want the freshest feed you can get. Even with my flock of 31 I refuse to buy feed that is more than 30 days old.

Yes they look a bit pale and dry. Do you feed any fresh meats? I know it may sound weird but it helps tho give them some raw hamburger from time to time.

I have given them sardines in the past, and a little chicken, but very rarely. Almost never. I can give it a try.
Yes, my flock is only nine. I had four last year (my first year), got six this year, and lost one Labor Day weekend.

 

[21hens-incharge]

Hmmmmmm!!
I wonder if you can put a little south facing window in for them. Maybe a shed window....


I agree birds need sunshine to stay healthy.

 

[micstrachan]

I have a plastic tray wrapped in saran wrap under my Buckeye, Ruby, since she’s feeling the skinniest and her comb is the lightest. I’ll try to grab it early in the morning before they wake up and kick bedding into it.

 

[micstrachan]

Dropped off fecal sample this morning. They have to send it out, so I’ll hear tomorrow.
If they find parasites/pathogens, they will not prescribe treatment without first seeing a chicken. If I need to, I guess I’ll bring in Ruby, since she feels the skinniest and I tried to collect her droppings.
Chicken keeping is getting crazy expensive. I spent almost $2000 on Rusty and only got about six more months of time with her before she died.

 

[21hens-incharge]

Hoping for the best.

 

[Jessica Thompson]

Yay