One hen being pecked on the beak by others. Any ideas?

[ellenam]

I have 6 fully-grown hens (3 Barred Rocks, 3 Rhode Island Reds) and one is being pecked on the beak by the others.She had an amber rash/fungus/whatever-the-heck-it-is on her beak. Any ideas on what it is, or how to treat it. Maybe the rash is the result of the pecking? PLEASE HELP!!!

 

[Mountain Peeps]

Yes, that very well may be. Put some Vaseline or coconut oil on it. (You may have to isolate the hurt bird until she heals.)Give the chickens plenty of space and boredom busters to keep pecking at bay.

 

[Jajika]

Good advice. You also might try some VetRx. I get it online. Seems like a good overall medication. My concern is if your girl has a fungus, you may want to consult a vet. As well all know, a fungus can be difficult to treat.

And, yes, entertainment is really key to keep chickens from picking on each other. What do you have in your yard or pen. Chickens love to jump on things. even a chair or something they can sit on. My chicken yard has some big bushes and plants with branches which they love to jump and sit on. Some folks are setting up chicken swings, which is a great idea.