Lump on chickens breast

[kauaichk]

Hello,
Newbie here. We have a “wild” chicken who is about 4 weeks old. We’ve had her since she was a few days old. She’s been primarily free ranging in our yard and staying in her brooder at night. We take very good care of her. She just came inside the house for evening and I noticed a lump on her chest. I thought it was just her feathers puffing out but it’s a definite round lump on the right side breast. We do have centipedes, maybe she was bitten? Anyone have experience with this ailment? She’s eating and drinking normally and doesn’t seem to be in any discomfort.
Thank you!!

 

[viennaproto]

I am not sure I see what you are talking about. Is there any chance you can get a better picture of it? Does the bump seem like its a wound or just raised skin?

 

[Sleek28]

Is it possible that it is her crop? She might’ve just eaten a ton. Does she free range on grass?

 

[kauaichk]

After doing some research last night, I learned about a chickens crop. It may be that, she free ranges most of the day and we’ve also been helping her find worms. Maybe it’s too much food in addition to her chick starter?

I will say, yesterday, the day I noticed the lump, she had free ranged and had chicken starter most of the day but didn’t have any worms.

It seems to be smaller this morning.

 

[kauaichk]

I am not sure I see what you are talking about. Is there any chance you can get a better picture of it? Does the bump seem like its a wound or just raised skin?

The photo isn’t great, I’ve just learned that it may be her crop from free ranging all day. I had no idea chickens had a crop that stores additional food!

 

[viennaproto]

Yes they do! In the picture you posted, I see nothing but a healthy and happy chicken

 

[Sleek28]

The photo isn’t great, I’ve just learned that it may be her crop from free ranging all day. I had no idea chickens had a crop that stores additional food!

If it reduced in size, and it is her crop, she probably just digested the food. She looks like she’s loving the worms though!

 

[kauaichk]

I’m reading about crushed oyster shells. Is there a brand that is recommended?
When she eats worms and bugs outside, she does get some dirt mixed in. But maybe she needs more?

 

[Sleek28]

I’m reading about crushed oyster shells. Is there a brand that is recommended?
When she eats worms and bugs outside, she does get some dirt mixed in. But maybe she needs more?

4 weeks old might be a little too young for oyster shells, but I️ don’t know. I️ give the oyster shells to my laying hens to provide extra calcium and up egg laying. Chicks and chickens will eat small rocks on their own to help mash up their food, so I️ don’t think you should worry too much about it.

 

[kauaichk]

Thanks for your input! I’ll wait on the oyster shells.