WHEN CHICKENS ATTACK (one of their own)

[ALPHAROOST]

I have a job that keeps me away 14 days at a time. My wife and children take care of the assortment of chickens that we raise. Included I had 2 Leghorns. While I was away, one of them died. I noticed shortly after returning home that the other Leghorn continually came under attack from the rest of the gang. At closer examination I notice a couple of sores on the chickens comb. I think this was caused due to their mating ritual. In any case, is there a sure fire cure or something to do to keep to others from attacking this one? I do believe this is what happened to the before mentioned chicken that died while I was away. At this time, I am having to keep the Leghorn hen seperated from the rest. Is this the only cure all? If so, can I reintroduce the Leghorn to the gang once the sores have healed? It may sound funny, but I had even thought about painting or dying the comb to try and hide the sores. Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

 

[Jenski]

First you will want to make sure the sores are wounds, and not fowl pox or something else. Can you post pictures?

for wounds to the comb, you could apply a spray called Blu-Kote on the comb (or, to avoid the eyes, spray some on a q-tip and apply to the comb). This spray contains topical agents that keep the wound clean, and gentian violet as well. The color discourages pecking (don't get on your hands, as it stains!).

Once the hen is healed you should be able to reintroduce. Just keep an eye out for aggression so the problem does not resurface.

Good luck!

 

[ALPHAROOST]

Thanks for the info. JENSKI. If I can figure out how to post some pics. I will do it. I guess I never thought it may be anything other than a wound. At this time I am trying to introduce the Leghorn to the 2 others that were raised with it. Those 2 seem not to have a problem with it. I also have a Rhode Island rooster that worked his way over the dividing fence and seems to only harass the Leghorn hen when he wants to mate. Anyway, I'll keep a close eye on things and try and get some pics up for you. Thanks again.