Yes, you have to clear the area...it may already be too late! I lost a chick at a week and a half - almost 2 weeks old back in May because I knew nothing about it. I just thought she was dirty back there. By the time I found out what it was and removed it, it was too late. It is so, so serious. I would use warm water, a toothpick, scissors...anything that you can use to pull it away and not hurt her at the same time. Good luck-please keep us posted.