Solid stones at base of feathers near vent

[Charlotte D]

Hi, I have a rescue ex-commercial layer who has been with us for 2 years. She is the leader of the pack and a lovely girl. She had a messy bottom, lots of poo stuck to it, so I've just had her in an old washing up bowl for a little bath. The messiness has washed away, but I have noticed hard stones at the base of her feathers which I can neither rub off or pull off and which are absolutely stuck fast. I'm guessing that this is probably very old hardened poo, and I imagine she is quite uncomfortable so I'd really like to get rid. Does anybody have any ideas as to how to dissolve or something?
I've attached a photo which I hope will help with a diagnosis and treatment.
Thanks lots!

 

[JacinLarkwell]

Those are HUGE clumps of mite eggs

 

[Mark Park]

Those are HUGE clumps of mite eggs

That is exactly what they are.

 

[Charlotte D]

Ok, that is really awful. Do you know what kind of mites and how do I get rid please? Is it lice?

 

[Ihavesomechickens]

I would rub Vaseline on the eggs first to suffocate them, and then use mite stuff to treat the area.

 

[Charlotte D]

Thanks. I think I'm a bit shocked. Thanks so much to all who have replied so far. When you say mite stuff, do you mean Diatomaceous earth? Or do I need something a bit more hardcore ?

 

[Ihavesomechickens]

Thanks. I think I'm a bit shocked. Thanks so much to all who have replied so far. When you say mite stuff, do you mean Diatomaceous earth? Or do I need something a bit more hardcore ?

DE doesn’t do much. I would use more spray stuff, but I don’t know where you would get it. Do you have a farm store or anything near you?

 

[Charlotte D]

Ok, I'm in the UK and yes have a farm shop nearby but it doesn't do an awful lot of hen stuff. Can you name a particular product I could use please? I can always try to get on the internet.

 

[JacinLarkwell]

Honestly if I were able I would try to just clip those feathers off and throw them away

 

[Ihavesomechickens]

Vetericyn would work, and it’s on amazon so it would be delivered.