Pale Combs

[Mikeila]

I just went out to water our ladies and noticed our cinnamon queens combs are going pale. The tips of our barred rocks are also a bit pale. I checked the one that would let me pick it up for lice/mites and no signs of infestation.

We are in NW illinois and had big temperature swings. Last week it was -5... today almost 40. Could this cause it? Should I be concerned? They are about 9 months old, seem to have normal spunky temperment....

Any advice?

 

[FowlProtector]

Yes, the big temperature swings could definitely be a factor in the paleness of their combs. Extreme cold followed by a sudden warm-up can cause stress, which may temporarily affect circulation and comb color. Other potential causes include:

1. Circulatory Adjustment – When it’s cold, chickens redirect blood flow away from extremities to conserve heat. With a sudden warm-up, their bodies may still be adjusting.
2. Molt or Post-Laying Recovery – At 9 months, they may be nearing or just finishing their first laying cycle, which can sometimes cause a paler comb.
3. Mild Anemia – If they free-range, check for signs of internal parasites (worms) or deficiencies (especially iron).
4. Hydration & Nutrition – Ensure they have plenty of water, high-protein feed, and extra nutrients like vitamins and minerals to support them through the temp swings.

As long as they are eating, drinking, and acting normally, I wouldn’t be too concerned yet. However, if you notice lethargy, reduced appetite, or worsening comb color (bluish or shriveled), then it might warrant a closer look. Keep an eye on them and maybe offer some extra protein like scrambled eggs or mealworms to support their energy levels.

 

[FowlProtector]

To address the pale comb issue right now, here’s what you can do immediately:

1. Hydration & Electrolytes​

• Give them fresh, clean water and add electrolytes (or make a DIY mix with 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp baking soda, and 1 tbsp sugar per gallon of water).
• If you have apple cider vinegar, add 1 tbsp per gallon of water to boost circulation.

2. High-Protein Snack​

• Scrambled eggs, mealworms, or sunflower seeds will give them an energy boost.
• A small amount of cooked oatmeal can also help them stay warm at night.

3. Inspect for Frostbite or Other Issues​

• Gently feel their combs. If tips are dry or dark, apply Vaseline to prevent further damage.
• Check for signs of illness (fluffed-up feathers, lethargy, lack of appetite).

4. Temperature Regulation​

• If the coop got damp from thawing snow, make sure bedding is dry to prevent stress.
• Ensure ventilation is good but not drafty.

5. Monitor Closely​

• If they are acting normal and eating/drinking well, it’s likely just stress from the temperature swings.
• If their combs get worse or they start acting sick, consider checking for parasites or illness

 

[Eggcessive]

They all have some frostbite on the tips of their combs. They should heal up fine in a month or two. They will become more rounded off. I don’t recommend applying any creams or ointments since those can freeze, nor do I massage or handle the combs since they are painful. You might want to post some follow up pictures after they heal. These are some links with pictures to see of frostbite:
https://poultrydvm.com/condition/frostbite

https://the-chicken-chick.com/frostbit-in-backyard-chickens-causes/

 

[Mikeila]

Yes, the big temperature swings could definitely be a factor in the paleness of their combs. Extreme cold followed by a sudden warm-up can cause stress, which may temporarily affect circulation and comb color. Other potential causes include:

1. Circulatory Adjustment – When it’s cold, chickens redirect blood flow away from extremities to conserve heat. With a sudden warm-up, their bodies may still be adjusting.
2. Molt or Post-Laying Recovery – At 9 months, they may be nearing or just finishing their first laying cycle, which can sometimes cause a paler comb.
3. Mild Anemia – If they free-range, check for signs of internal parasites (worms) or deficiencies (especially iron).
4. Hydration & Nutrition – Ensure they have plenty of water, high-protein feed, and extra nutrients like vitamins and minerals to support them through the temp swings.

As long as they are eating, drinking, and acting normally, I wouldn’t be too concerned yet. However, if you notice lethargy, reduced appetite, or worsening comb color (bluish or shriveled), then it might warrant a closer look. Keep an eye on them and maybe offer some extra protein like scrambled eggs or mealworms to support their energy levels.

This is super helpful, thank you! I will stop and get them some mealworms tomorrow. They do not free range this time of year so they are getting all bagged feed and then our scraps. Our egghas dropped slightly the past couple days. We will keep a close eye.

 

[Mikeila]

They all have some frostbite on the tips of their combs. They should heal up fine in a month or two. They will become more rounded off. I don’t recommend applying any creams or ointments since those can freeze, nor do I massage or handle the combs since they are painful. You might want to post some follow up pictures after they heal. These are some links with pictures to see of frostbite:
https://poultrydvm.com/condition/frostbite

https://the-chicken-chick.com/frostbit-in-backyard-chickens-causes/

I researched some other pictures and compared to mine and yes I do believe this is the issue! I will keep an eye for recovery and add some updated pictures in the coming weeks. Thank you! This has been an odd winter for us, hopefully for the ladies sake the temperatures remain high so they can heal.

 

[StinkyAcres]

That is pretty major frostbite for -5F. I'd be concerned there is not enough ventilation in your coop. How much ventilation do you have and how many birds? Do you keep a heated waterer inside the coop?

 

[Wyorp Rock]

Yes, the big temperature swings could definitely be a factor in the paleness of their combs. Extreme cold followed by a sudden warm-up can cause stress, which may temporarily affect circulation and comb color. Other potential causes include:

1. Circulatory Adjustment – When it’s cold, chickens redirect blood flow away from extremities to conserve heat. With a sudden warm-up, their bodies may still be adjusting.
2. Molt or Post-Laying Recovery – At 9 months, they may be nearing or just finishing their first laying cycle, which can sometimes cause a paler comb.
3. Mild Anemia – If they free-range, check for signs of internal parasites (worms) or deficiencies (especially iron).
4. Hydration & Nutrition – Ensure they have plenty of water, high-protein feed, and extra nutrients like vitamins and minerals to support them through the temp swings.

As long as they are eating, drinking, and acting normally, I wouldn’t be too concerned yet. However, if you notice lethargy, reduced appetite, or worsening comb color (bluish or shriveled), then it might warrant a closer look. Keep an eye on them and maybe offer some extra protein like scrambled eggs or mealworms to support their energy levels.

To address the pale comb issue right now, here’s what you can do immediately:

1. Hydration & Electrolytes​

• Give them fresh, clean water and add electrolytes (or make a DIY mix with 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp baking soda, and 1 tbsp sugar per gallon of water).
• If you have apple cider vinegar, add 1 tbsp per gallon of water to boost circulation.

2. High-Protein Snack​

• Scrambled eggs, mealworms, or sunflower seeds will give them an energy boost.
• A small amount of cooked oatmeal can also help them stay warm at night.

3. Inspect for Frostbite or Other Issues​

• Gently feel their combs. If tips are dry or dark, apply Vaseline to prevent further damage.
• Check for signs of illness (fluffed-up feathers, lethargy, lack of appetite).

4. Temperature Regulation​

• If the coop got damp from thawing snow, make sure bedding is dry to prevent stress.
• Ensure ventilation is good but not drafty.

5. Monitor Closely​

• If they are acting normal and eating/drinking well, it’s likely just stress from the temperature swings.
• If their combs get worse or they start acting sick, consider checking for parasites or illness

The birds have Frostbite.

Are your lists AI Generated?

 

[Mikeila]

Posting an updated picture for anyone who may come to this thread with a similar question someday. I confirm with others that it is frostbite. Feel terrible that it happened but they had access to warm shelter at all times. Looks like comb is turning more black and im assuming will fall off soon.

 

[Wyorp Rock]

Posting an updated picture for anyone who may come to this thread with a similar question someday. I confirm with others that it is frostbite. Feel terrible that it happened but they had access to warm shelter at all times. Looks like comb is turning more black and im assuming will fall off soon. View attachment 4059480

Looks like the comb and tips of the wattles are making progress in drying up.
You're right, the comb tips will turn more black as time goes by and will fall off leaving a more rounded look.

Frostbite can easily happen in those temperatures even with good shelter.