Hello

[Anonymous]

Hi, I've recently bought 3 hens and I absolutely LOVE them. They all free range in our garden all day and go to their coop in the evening. They all seem healthy except for one which is a Rhode Island Red about 20 weeks. She's very active, eats lots and runs around and seems fine other than a swelling on her right side below her neck. I've done some reading and it seems it could be her crop. In the morning its slightly swollen but by the evening it is quite swollen although she doesn't show any sign of discomfort. I am worried that this could be early signs of impacted crop. I have not been able to feel the lump as she runs away when I try to pick her up. None of the hens allow me to pick them up but they seem quite tame and run after me when I come out to them. What should I do?

I also noticed that they have not been eating much pellets which I leave for them in their coop during the day, but I figure this is because they are outside eating other things in the garden all day long. Is this normal?

I have also read that I should put some Apple Cider Vinegar in their water which I have not been doing but will get some tomorrow and I've also bought some Verm-X drops for their water which I plan to do 3 days a month.

ALso I have been covering their coop with a light blanket at night in this cold weather, is this OK or not?

Need any help or advise.
Sara

 

[Anonymous]

Hi Sara,

Can't help with all your questions I am afraid as I am relatively inexperienced but have heard that apple cider vinegar is great and plan on getting some myself next time I go to the feed merchants. I would have thought that covering the coop was not a good idea as chickens need good ventilation (although someone in the know may come along and correct me). I think insulating the floor and nesting boxes would be better - old carpet or cardboard and just adding extra bedding. If your girls are cold they'll snuggle up together.

 

[Anonymous]

Hi Sara,
a big welcome to the best poultry forum .
As regards your girls,it sounds normal to me (imo) regarding your RIR's crop,with some of my girls their crops are more noticable than others,it is worrying when you first see it.It can also be on the birds right hand side,mine all are that have a large crop.If it is bulging at night,and empty in the morning that is fine.
By all means put an extra cover over their hen house in this weather,they do appreciate it.