What is this growing out of cockerel's foot?

[SequoiaBaby7]

So I am starting to treat my 9 week old cockerel for leg mites because I noticed the scales on his legs starting to slightly lift up. Also, he has something that looks like a nail growing on his outer right toe. It's has lifted up the scale from underneath and feels almost like the tip of a quil but stronger. I'm wasn't concerned about it until I noticed that it keeps growing and then he developed leg mites. I'm probably overreacting, but I figure it's better safe than sorry. Thank you in advanced!

 

[azygous]

Is he by any chance a mixed breed? It would appear that "growth" is a vestigial feather follicle. He may carry genes for feathered feet.

I would just leave it alone. If you try to remove it, it might bleed and be difficult to stop it.

But I agree it's a good idea to treat him for scaly leg mites.

 

[SequoiaBaby7]

Is he by any chance a mixed breed? It would appear that "growth" is a vestigial feather follicle. He may carry genes for feathered feet.

I would just leave it alone. If you try to remove it, it might bleed and be difficult to stop it.

But I agree it's a good idea to treat him for scaly leg mites.

That's probably what it is because he is an Olive Egger and his dad was a Marans with feathered legs. Thanks for the input!