Mother Hen has faded crest

[chickenlovinqt]

I am unsure if this is normal or anything serious, so I'm looking for advice.

Our Hen hatched 13 babies two weeks ago.

Today, I noticed her crest and left hand side of her face (right around her eye) are a bit faded, less red than usual.

Aside from the recent discoloration, she's doing great. Drinks plenty water, eats feed and marches her troops all over to forage without issue.

I've also noticed the babies (and mama too) have become the victims of ticks! I remove them gently and send the chickens on their way. I hope they aren't filling my babes with disease..

 

[silkiechicken]

Faded combs/faces/waddles can be a sign of stress or external practices like you found on them. Also can change colors depending on temperature. If she is fiesty and normal other wise, no worries.