something like a red tube sticking out of chick's back @ base of spine

[haTHOR]

just hatched, getting pecked, i isolated back in bator from brooder. now even the newer chicks are giving her hell about it. will put on coal tar stuff as soon as i get baby out of my lap but WHAT is it?

 

[silkiechicken]

Sounds like the oil gland. It should be hidden once they fluff out. All chickens have a nub at the base of spine/spot before tail. Pics may help if it's not an oil gland.

 

[haTHOR]

thanks, i checked my others (hatched 24) and they have it, but this chick's is very prominent and very red, and her feathers are light. maybe she just got pecked too many times and it is irritated, etc. not bleeding but so red it attracts their attention. of course i have no blu cote on hand. any other diy substitutions, if i can't find the coal tar either?

i have run the memory/batteries out of both cameras with this hatch of course! will do my best to get some space, recharge, etc. and post tomorrow.

 

[TammyP]

Perhaps you can try a black marker? It might work temporary and won't hurt the chick.... just a suggestion.

 

[haTHOR]

thank you, perfect!