Lethargic hen, but no other symptoms! *pic*

wings

Songster
11 Years
Jan 11, 2009
780
0
139
Massachusetts
I have an eight-month-old Rhode Island Red hen named Ginger Pye. She is a healthy, happy, hen, and I'm pretty sure she's laying. The problem is, she seems lethargic and unhappy. When I threw down some scraps for everyone to eat, she didn't peck at them with the usual vigor. I don't know if I'm being paranoid and she's just fine, so does anyone have a list of symptoms that could show me if she is okay or not? Here's a picture of her face, just in case you see anything funny:

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So am I just being a crazy paranoid chicken mother? Or are there any possible sicknesses that you can think of? PLEASE HELP!!!
 
Is she moving around? Has she been laying? From this pict, her comb and everything look good and healthy. I think when it comes to our feathery girls, we can never be too paranoid. I have had a ton of issues lately, so best to figure it out sooner than later.
 
Yes, her coloring does look good. I have some girls who seem moody sometimes. Is she too young to molt? I can't remember how old when they start but my girls get "down" for lack of a better word at this time. Could she be? Anyway, whenever I see or "feel" anything is different I keep a close eye to ensure I catch anything quickly. Keep us posted.
 
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Oh goodness! I hope it has nothing to do with worms!!!
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What should I do about that, or what should I look for?
 
If you can manage it, I'd spend some time observing her in the coop and run. If she handles well, invite her on your lap and gently palpate crop and vent. Anything more distended or mushy than the others? Has she been forced down the pecking order? Does she seem fascinated by nesting boxes and/or eggs? Does she sneak back inside to spend extra time with eggs or has she staked out a box for herself? She's at an age when she might go broody and since you have been observant you may be noticing early stages. Be particular, everything from droppings to her relationships with the others.

If there is something awry, you're going to catch it at the early stages- best of luck!
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