Trouble in the backyard

[CityFolk]

I clipped the wings because I don't want them flying over the fence and escaping into the neighborhood.

 

[GaNewChick]

Quote:
Maybe I'm confused. Their run does not have a cover? If they can fly over the fence, then that means something can come in over the fence. Without wings, they have no way to escape.

Am I following you?

 

[HennysMom]

Quote:
(trodding gently here) Why did you clip their wings? I'm not quite understanding the thought process in that - I realize you say you dont want them going into your neighbors yard, however - dont free range them without supervision and they wont. My birds' wings have never been clipped and they dont fly higher than my knees, even though they can. Birds should have the capability to fly to get away from predators (of course, thats my opinion), however I do know some that do clip wings, but it seems you clipped theirs, yet pen them in a pen too?

You as their owner have to take the necessary precautions to ensure your birds are protected and safe; free ranging doesnt mean not watching out for them, their pen should be covered and from the sound of it, it doesnt appear to be. Your birds were scared to go back in their coop/pen area because of something.... I understand you wanting them back in it, but did you check it out first before forcing them back in? Poor birds must've been terrified

Is this your first time having chickens? I'm going to assume it is based on the "red thing on their heads" comment

That is called their comb, and the 'red things' hanging down underneath their beaks on each side is the wattles. How did your birds get injured that seriously to have the comb hanging off? That needs to be addressed and quickly or it will get infected. Do you have a first aid kit on hand for your birds? (to answer your question, no it doesnt grow back). Please clean the wound very well with some sterile saline solution, put some antiseptic on it (like betadine *no benzicaine in it*) and then put neosporin (also with no lidocaine/benzicaine) and let it heal.

Perhaps looking around the BYC site and learning about chickens, their behavior, first aid, and health remedies will help you for the future.

We're here if you have any questions