Small pale comb on Black Australorp

[genesis1981]

I have 3 x 15 wk old Australorp ladies and two of them have their combs coming in very nicely and turning bright red. One of them, who happens to be my favorite, seems to be a bit stunted. She has always had a beak with less black pigment in it and her feathers aren't pure black, she has a bit of grey in some of her front feathers, and she is the only one who likes to be picked up, so she has always been a little different. However I'm starting to be concerned that her comb is still very small and very pale. I have tried to check her for mites and haven't seen any evidence of them or any real lethargy. It's been in the 90s for the past couple weeks here in MD and all the chickens have been panting up a storm despite being given ice but thats the only behavior I see that is abnormal. Anyone have any thoughts about whether I should worry/what I should try? Many thanks!

 

[RhodeIslandRed5]

You sound like me: have a favorite and she's the smallest and the sweetest. That's her in my avatar. Can you post a picture of her? Do you notice her poo and if it's watery in any way?

 

[Keeperofmunchkins]

Yes a photo would be helpful. Is it possible she is not pure Australorp? If she is a different breed she is more likely to be developing at a different rate to the others. If she is eating and pooping normally and doesn't seem lethargic, it is very likely she is fine and just a bit slower to mature.

 

[RhodeIslandRed5]

Some vitamins would be good. Help make her stronger.

However if her poo look runny like diarrhea, I'd give your flock Corid ASAP.

 

[genesis1981]

 

[genesis1981]

Thanks guys. The gal I am referring to is the one on the left obviously, with her head down. Tiny little pale comb. I haven't noticed any loose poop but I will start trying to monitor. So they are old enough for the probiotics at 15 weeks? I always just assumed to add those after laying began but I am up for anything.

 

[RhodeIslandRed5]

You could give her a nutrient rich treat of no salt added scrambled or boiled egg. I know mine loved that! Well all but one anyway. She's weird and has never cared for handout treats unless it's grasshoppers.

 

[genesis1981]

 

[RhodeIslandRed5]

Aww, so cute! I couldn't help but notice that building...is that one of those Tractor Supply buildings? If so, good luck with it. Those things are cheap made.

 

[genesis1981]

Haha no my husband built the coop for our 3 girls. He's pretty handy but definitely not an expert craftsman! I will try some eggs for her tomorrow morning. Cannot hurt!

Does anyone think the comb looks sickly or maybe just slow to develop?