New Hen in Quarantine has Dirty Butt Fluff

[galaga6846]

We have a new hen, the sole survivor of a large flock. She was in a pretty muddy outdoor run that wasn't too clean or covered. I'm letting her hang out in the house with us and noticed her butt fluff has hardened, darkened feathers. She has normal looking poop. Should we try to bathe her? If so, what's the best method?

 

[dawg53]

You can put her in a container of warm water up to her sides. The warm water will relax her and loosen hardened debris/feces from her fluff. Wear disposable gloves to help clean off her rear end.
Once it's clean, remove her from the container and pat dry her with an old towel as best as you can. Then use a hair dryer to completely dry her off.

 

[galaga6846]

Thank you. I did end up giving her a bath in warm water. She seemed to really like it. Then, came the blow drying. She was in hen heaven. Preening and eyes closed. She never ran or flapped, she just stood there enjoying every minute. I was stunned.