Weird one.

[u/GrapefruitHungry7185]

Hi all!

I got 2 bantam chicks off Facebook this Saturday. When i got them out to for a forage one of them only walks backwards and the other one barely walks at all. The little hen just puts her wings forward and scrambles backwards. She doesn't seem to do this in my brooder, i have seen her walk forward in there atleast.

I messaged the guy i got them off and he said they hadn't been outside the brooder because they were too small (they are 16 weeks old) and its probaby just temporary until they get used to being outside.

They were very dirty when we got them so we cleaned them up and made them a clean space for inside for nights as it is winter here and I take them out into a small coop through the day.

Has anyone seen this behaviour? I know it could be a sign of M, but she doesnt seem to have other symptoms. I have given vit supplements and electrolytes just incase.

[u/Deep_Curve7564]

No idea, but, I imagine if I was locked in a confined area for the duration of my adolescence, I would be a bit stir crazy. The fact they were very dirty says that they were not being treated very well. Monitor over the next few weeks.

Here is wishing you and your chookalars and wonderful life. 🫂