So yesterday I made a post concerning a hen that I thought might be egg bound. As I was soaking her belly in warm water and massaging it this morning I noticed something above her tail. Now I don't believe this is her oil gland, however, I am so paranoid at this point I don't know what to think. Here are some pictures: She has "droopy tail" and is barely walking at this point but she does stand a little. She is eating, drinking, preening and bright eyed. I don't know what to do. She did poop this morning and it was the right consistency. I'm thinking the best think to do is just let her be with her flock. Any suggestions?
I've never seen an oil gland on a live bird, but that looks just exactly like the ones on my meaties last year, so that's my vote. The droopy tail, and standing upright sounds like egg bound. there should be lots of advice if you do a search! good luck!
Yes, that is the oil gland. If you suspect she is still eggbound, continue with the warm water soaks and belly massage. You can put a little olive oil inside her vent to help lube it to make it easier for her to lay the egg.
