Today, my 8-month-old hen was laying down in the horse pens. Just seemed to be sunning or dusting like the chickens do. However, she didn't move and let me stroke her. This is highly unusual for her. She is very smart, but will normally only take food out of my hand. She's always been too frightened to be petted. I have noticed she follows me more. If I'm in the yard and go the barn, she shows up down there. She seems to appear wherever I am. Well, I picked her up, and she struggled a little. I felt a wet spot under her, but didn't see anything except a small bare spot. No blood, just slightly weepy skin with no feathers. It was a small area. I took her to the house and wrapped her in a towel so I get a better look. There was an odd odor. It was kind of putrid. About that time she pooped a big healthy poop. No yellow or blood. It was a dark brown turd with a little white. About as healthy looking as you can get. I was relieved. I took her back out, but then noticed she sat in the yard a bit with her eyes closed. Then I watched her pick around and eat a little. She's big and stout.
She doesn't seem herself, but then again, I can't tell if she's just getting more gentle. I didn't notice any signs of respiratory problems. We are in Texas.
Any ideas?
She doesn't seem herself, but then again, I can't tell if she's just getting more gentle. I didn't notice any signs of respiratory problems. We are in Texas.
Any ideas?
