Multiple Limping Muscovies

[feralladies]

We have 9 Muscovy ducks. 8 females, 1 male. They have a large enclosure and do not free ranger. About 2 weeks ago one of our hens started limping. During breeding season we do see this sometimes so we separated her for a "break". Then another hen began limping and then today one of our super healthy outgoing girls isn't herself and has a small limp as well. The other two hens are walking a bit better but definitely aren't fully recovered. I've read so many articles about possibilities from worms to niacin deficiency to everything else. There are no apparent signs of illness other than the limp and sitting more. No physical signs of neck or wing issues. Eyes are clear. Our other hens are sitting on nests and don't seem to have any issues. Any ideas? Thanks!

 

[Isaac 0]

Welcome to Backyard Chickens!

Have you checked the bottom of their feet for Bumblefoot?

 

[feralladies]

Welcome to Backyard Chickens!

Have you checked the bottom of their feet for Bumblefoot?

Yes. Nothing that I can see but maybe it's minor and we aren't noticing it? I haven't dealt with bumblefoot before. We will check again to be sure. Thanks!

 

[Isaac 0]

Yes. Nothing that I can see but maybe it's minor and we aren't noticing it? I haven't dealt with bumblefoot before. We will check again to be sure. Thanks!

It doesn't always appear with a core, just look for swelling, a picture would be great. Could you post a video of the hens walking? Does their leg fell warm?

 

[chickens really]

Possibly from the Drake chasing them down to breed them.

 

[learycow]

It could be from the drake, but with that many hens it's not likely that hes overbreeding (unless these two happen to be the favorites among the flock).

I would treat for worms. Worms can cause limping and lethargy. Treating them won't hurt them.

I would also add brewers yeast (how old are they?). A niacin deficiency isn't common to just appear in breeding adults, but with two starting to show the same symptoms, I'm wondering if it is a vitamin problem.
What do you feed them?

The other possibility would be egg bound since they are females. Not common to have 2 at once, but I would definitely check them for that as well.