occasional black runny poop

[mdoerge]

I have 6 1/2 week old chicks. Every once in awhile, I will find one or two black runny/gooey poops on their roost or in their outdoor run. This has been happening on and off for the past few weeks. They have been on medicated feed since day one; I started transitioning to grower feed this week. They all seem very healthy and normal in their behavior. I do give them treats - yogurt, cucumbers, sunflower seeds, etc. Any ideas? Should I be concerned?

 

[arlee453]

There is a HUGE range of 'normal' when it comes to chicken poo.

I'd not worry too much unless you see blood.

 

[chicksinthemachine]

Mine get that way too sometimes. It is usually something ate,especially(sp?) if they free range.

 

[mdoerge]

I have never seen any blood. I kind of figured that since it was off and on - and obviously not happening with all of them, that it was probably no big deal. I wondered if it was maybe the cucumbers. I have a bumper crop, so the chickens have been getting one every couple of days, which they go crazy over. Thanks for the feedback.