Non emergency, scabs from pecking/overcrowding

[BBrady]

I picked up 10 barred rock chick today from the feed store. They are all supposed to be pullets. I had my two school ages boys with me, and in the excitement of catching the chicks to take home, I decided not to be picky about some that had scabby spots. I figured there were about 30-40 chicks, about 3 weeks old, in a 50 gallon bin at the store, so they probably picked a lot at each other as chick may do occasionally when getting crowded and rowdy.

Nothing looks infected, and they all act normal, but I want to put some coconut oil on them, or at least bathe them soon. I don't want to over handle them, but boy they sure are cute!! I have included two photos of the worst scabs, not all chicks have them, but I noticed more than I expected to at the feed. On the chicks shoulders and back.

 

[Judy]

Personally I would buy some BluKote and spray the spots. It is an antiseptic, and helps to discourage further pecking. If you don't overheat them and give them plenty of space, they may leave each other alone -- or not Spots like those tempt chickens to peck them more.

 

[BBrady]

Im trying to raise as naturally as possible. If all I need is antiseptic, antibacterial, then I can just mix a bit of lemongrass essential oil in some honey and dab it on. Thanks!

 

[Judy]

I hope chickens don't like honey. Blukote is gentian violet, an ingredient which is usually considered "natural," as I understand it. The color is part of what deters pecking.

 

[BBrady]

I read that, and I find it so interesting that blue skin is a deterrent. There was no change in the scabs in the first 24 hours of having them, so I made a mix of 1/4 ounce or less of honey and about 10 drops of lemongrass essential oil, then applied it with a q-tip during the time I was checking bottoms to make sure they weren't eating the bedding and getting pasty butts. They seemed completely unbothered by the treatment, and I left to make lunch and go to a pottery class. I checked when I got home after dinner, and the scabs were significantly less inflamed and more pink than red. I wonder if the lemon oil flavor made the honey less palatable? I'll look more into the BluKote, I'm glad you mentioned it. I am also glad I had a good substitute for this time.