Walter’s Comb Turning Purple

[EdnaAndEdith]

Hello. Today my rooster’s (Walter) comb started turning purple on the tips. At first I thought it was just dirt from a dust bath but when I tried to wipe it off it doesn’t come off. It looks as if it’s bruised almost. But when I felt it his comb seemed cold to the touch. Winter is pretty well over for us and the weather has been in the fifties, sixties, and today even hit seventy degrees I think. My first thought after I realized it wasn’t dirt was frostbite but it seems far too warm or for that especially since he did well over the winter no problems. He is the only roo so there’s no chance he got in a fight and caused bruising. Any ideas on what it is or how to treat it? He’s been acting more than fine this whole time. Never gave me cause for concern other then last night he went to bed kind of early and was a little tired (of course the three baby chicks running around could wear a guy out).

Edit: it has also been very windy here for theee days although today it wasn’t. It was a cold wind. Could that have caused it?

 

[EdnaAndEdith]

Also, he was born January 2017. So he is young.

 

[micstrachan]

Is there any rattling with his breathing and is his crop emptying properly? I’m slightly concerned about a possible oxygen issue with the blue tips and if he’s a little tired. I don’t mean to be an alarmist, just want to be thorough.

 

[EdnaAndEdith]

Is there any rattling with his breathing and is his crop emptying properly? I’m slightly concerned about a possible oxygen issue with the blue tips and if he’s a little tired. I don’t mean to be an alarmist, just want to be thorough.

No rattling or noises when breathing. He didn’t seem tired today just last night at bedtime although he was fine during the day. He isn’t breathing open mouthed. His crop seems to be moderately full at night and empty by morning (he has never been a big eater he’s too much of a gentleman for that so his crop is never really full like the girls ). I can’t think of anything else to add but let me know if you need further info.

 

[dawg53]

I was thinking of an oxygen issue also. However I've seen color changes in combs in the many roosters that I've owned over the years without any problems. It's probably hormonal, after all, it's spring time.
Since he's eating and drinking normal and acting like a rooster should, I wouldnt worry about it.

 

[micstrachan]

Yeah, I bet he’s fine. How is he today?

 

[EdnaAndEdith]

Update today: this morning his comb was slightly purple by lunch it looked normal with maybe faint purple on the tips. I don’t know what it was...maybe stress? Maybe spring? I don’t know. But he still ate well and seemed normal so I’m going to take a wait and see approach. Thanks for all of your help!