Mareks?

[cinnamoncockatiel]

I volunteer at a local garden with chickens. I care for the flock every Wednesday. Today when I came there was a hen laying on the ground. I thought she was sunbathing, but when I reached to pet her she barely flinched. These hens are cautious and shy. I immediately knew she was hurt/sick.One of her wings was sticker out and when I lifted it she started very lightly twitching and pulling away. Her legs were sticking out too. One was cold and didn't the toes did not wrap around my fingers. The other leg/foot was the opposite. I have seen pictures of hens with Mareks and it reminded me of it. I am not sure about the wing because after picking her up and putting her down she tucker it back in and it didn't seem as ¨broken¨. I sadly have no pictures, but I might head back today and help her and snap a few pics while I am there. Her eyes are semi-bright and her comb is only lightly pale. No poofiness or other signs of illness. She is an otherwise healthy bird who can not stand. Any ideas?

 

[cinnamoncockatiel]

I know lots of diseases can look like Mareks too, with similar symptoms.

 

[cavemanrich]

I follow this thread. It has much info about Mareks. It is worth reading to inform yourself.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/th...ding-for-resistance-to-mareks-disease.894589/

I also suggest you practice good biosecurity when you encounter the "volunteer garden chickens" and go home to tend to your own chickens. You don't want to infect your chickens with whatever the sick chickens may have.

WISHING YOU BEST,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

 

[Dottie the Chicken]

She may be dying. Let us know what you find later.