Maman Poule

A very serious condition that is very uncomfortable for the hen, it can lead to death if not treated quickly.

The cause is attracting flies to a dirty vent.  The flies eat the healthy skin on the affected area and lay their eggs in the wound.  The problem will then escalate until the hen succumbs to a slow and painful death.

The main symptom is obvious – the chicken will constantly be looking around behind them trying to clear the area, but to no avail.

Act quickly and clean up the area, removing all signs of larvae (maggots) and treating the wound accordingly.  If you believe the injury has gone too far, you have to decide whether to get the vet to intervene or put down the bird humanely.

If a chicken eats the maggots, they can in some cases stick to the inside of the crop, giving them the chance to eat their way out. The host is eaten alive in this way, as they can get stuck in the layers of skin and flesh.

Flies = danger!