Hi all, I have a beaut pair of initially clucky birds, but the hen went off the simmer when they were shifted into the breeding cage last weekend. She seemed to be getting back into the swing of things, but this morning the cock has swollen and bloody ankle and there seems to be bloof wherever he has been in the cage (Which is pretty much everywhere!) Take him out? Will he need vet inspection? What to do? It seems they were not the match made in heaven as originally thought!

Yes remove the cock bird and look for his wound. Clean it.

 

Does he have a ring? Maybe it needs removing.

 

Look about the cabinet for a possible source of injury. Maybe he caught his foot on something and injured it that way.

 

The hen may not necessarily attacked him. Does he keep his distance from her?

 

I'd pop him back in and watch them interact.

 

A photo of the ankle would be helpful.

Yes remove the cock bird and look for his wound. Clean it.

 

Does he have a ring? Maybe it needs removing.

 

Look about the cabinet for a possible source of injury. Maybe he caught his foot on something and injured it that way.

 

The hen may not necessarily attacked him. Does he keep his distance from her?

 

I'd pop him back in and watch them interact.

 

A photo of the ankle would be helpful.

 

Hi Renee,

thanks for that. Have checked the cage and it does seem that the hen bit him (probably early this morning)! Have cleaned the wound which is looking good now - it should heal well. I was so alarmed when first discovered because there seemed to be so much blood! Anyway, the hen is having some time alone. I'll give it a day and then do just a you suggest and watch them together ofr a couple of hours. He was still very keen on mating with her - but she's not ready I think. I will keep them close together, but in separate cages. He's such a gentleman, it doesn't seem fair!

 

I'm hoping they settle down, but I think she needs more time to get into proper breeding mode. This wild, cold weather has not helped.

 

thanks again,

 

Jo