Strange things in their poo

[Banjobill]

I'm not sure if this really a disease problem but it's not normal! The last couple of days I have found small pieces (marble size or smaller) of what looks like flesh amongst the poo of my hens. See attached photos. The hens do not seem ill. I wondered at first if it was some sort of foetus that had developed in the oviduct - it didn't seem like images I'd seen of lash eggs. When I cut them in half there seems to be a structure of concentric layers (3 or 4) like the layers of a onion. They did not smell strongly. Any ideas?

 

[Brahma Chicken5000]

@aart @casportpony @Folly's place @Pyxis @azygous @chickens really @lazy gardener @drumstick diva any ideas guys?

 

[aart]

When I cut them in half there seems to be a structure of concentric layers (3 or 4) like the layers of a onion

Sure sounds like a 'lash'. 'Lash' being hardened pus from infection.
Could come from reproductive system or digestive system.

 

[azygous]

I'd recommend taking note of where each hen roosts, and then identifying which hen has these in her poop. I would then keep close watch for a few days on that hen and her poop. If these strange lumps continue, I'd then conclude the hen has an infection and start an antibiotic.

 

[chickens really]

I have no idea?..Could it be intestinal lining or reproductive tissue?..I really don't know?

 

[rebrascora]

The concentric layers when you cut in in half are indicative of it being a lash egg. They come if many different colours and shapes. I've not heard of them coming from the digestive tract, only the reproductive system and are indicative of an infection(salpingitis). Unfortunately it is often terminal unless treated in the very early stages with antibiotics. It might be worth checking your hens for any abdominal swelling, particularly below the vent or any noticeable vent pulsing where they look to be trying to expel something.