What does pasting up look like?

[my three chickens]

I'm new to this, with six chicks (amazing) who are now three days old. A few have had dirty butts, one with a lot of sticking. I wasn't sure if she could poop, so I cut off some of the dried stuff to be sure. Now her vent looks big and red--maybe from having feathers picked out, maybe from irritation? But then I saw her take two poops, so she's not pasted, right?

I'm realizing that I don't know what pasting up looks like. Can anyone describe it, or even show a photo?

Also, at what point should you clean a butt? Preventively, or just leave it alone until there's a problem pooping?

Thanks!

 

[silkiechicken]

It literally looks like a chunk of poo stuck on the bum. Moisten it with a wet cloth and work it loose. To prevent further pasting, a light application of oil can be helpful. Pasting is often caused due to stress of shipping or getting chilled.