Weak Chicken

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marinaD

marinaD

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6 Years
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Aug 15, 2013
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Hello! This is my first time posting here, but I've enjoyed reading helpful posts here in the past. We have 5 backyard chickens, and other than predators (a sneaky bobcat), have had an easy time raising chickens the past couple of years.

We bought three 5-week old chickens from a local farm in June. They are now around 3 months old. In the last few weeks we have noticed one of the Easter Eggers hasn't developed as quickly as the others. She's much smaller than the other EE and hasn't gotten her "adult voice" like the other two have- she still peeps. Her tail and wings often seem droopy and I have never seen her run like the others. She walks slowly and doesn't protest at all when the kids hold her. She isn't lethargic, but I've never seen a chicken this mellow before.

Amy advice is very appreciated. Thank you!

Little Ms Peepers is eating, drinking, and pooping well.

Does this sound like any sort of developmental delay, muscular, worm or parasite issue you've heard of? Should I take her to the vet?

Here's what I mean regarding the droopy wings, and they are not always like this:
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She will literally take a nap with the kids...
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she may be just a very placid bird. Do you see any sign of lice or mites on her? Since her development is delayed (feathering, cheeping etc.) it may just be that she is slower than the others and in time will catch up. How does she get along with the other birds? Does she hide from them or join in? Do the others peck her or bully her?

If you have a vet that treats poultry you might want to bring her in for your peace of mind.
 
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Hi from WV! In regards to your question, I am no pro at this either, but one of my chicks seemed to be acting similar at that same age. I wasn't sure what to do so I tried the save-a-chick electrolyte mix you put in the water in case she was stressed , dehydrated, or just needed a little vitamin or mineral kick. Maybe I got lucky, but she seemed to jump out of it. She began acting what I considered normal after that.
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Good luck!
 
Welcome to BYC
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Glad you joined us! I agree with the above advice. Good luck with her!
 

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