cock goad injury and other wounds can happen when working with a chicken flock . Chickens might not have the tooth that other domesticated brute do , but they can still cause quite a bit of damage , designedly and unintentionally . As Gallus gallus owner , be prepared to care any of the follow injuries . Shutterstock
Abrasions & Lacerations
scratch and scrapes are the most rough-cut injuries endure by domestic fowl keepers and can be from a cock spur accidental injury . Lifting a biddy off a nest , moving a bird from or onto a pole , or doing any kind of coop - cleanup or maintenance are instances where your tegument can come in contact with your crybaby ’s talons . Because of the nature of their purpose , for digging and defence , talon are naturally sharp , mean they can just as easily break human tegument as they can the aerofoil of the earth . Given that talons encounter grunge , droppings and other unsanitary aerofoil , you should consider a slit from this beginning contaminated and treat it accordingly .
While preventing bread might prove difficult , you’re able to minimize your exposure by weary longsighted pants , sleeve and gloves while interact with your flock . you may also reduce the damage your birds ’ talons might impose by inspecting them regularly to check for toothed edges that might immobilize more grime ; these can be dress using a pet file or clipper .
Bruises
Although chickens are relatively small animals , larger breeds such asJersey Giants , Brahmasand Australorps can deliver meaning force . Thepectoralis and supracoracoideus musclesthat control a bird ’s flight are super strong . One big H from an agitated chicken ’s beat wings can blacken an eye or cheek — or anything — quite well .
To forbid getting battered , pick up your hen or rooster in a manner that retain both annexe pin tightly against the bird ’s body . avert holding your bird anywhere near your aspect ; if you involve to try out an injured or sick birdie , muster in someone to securely grapple your chicken while you examine it .
Puncture Wounds
Descended from there d jungle fowl(Gallus gallus ) , the domestic chicken comes fit with two natural weapons that helped it survive in the wild : its spurs . Hens produce only little bud on their foot , but roosters can grow spurs that are super tenacious , sharp and grievous . goad are what roosters employ against rival as well as other threats to themselves and their hens . Should one of your boys comprehend you as a threat , he will not waffle to habituate his spur against you and this can cause a rooster spur hurt .
Because spurs consist of pearl continue with a hard keratin sheath , they can not be cut off without injuring the rooster . you could , however , reduce their sizeand minimize the potential damage to your flock and to yourself .
Many poultry owner keep an avian first - aid kit William Christopher Handy , stock with antiseptic , ophthalmologic ointment , veterinary patch , electrolyte and other point needed to treat an under the weather bird . In addition to these detail , keep rub alcohol , antibacterial ointment , veiling or cotton balls , and bandages on manus for yourself in case you are the one who suffers the barnyard injury . Most significantly , do not hesitate to search professional medical assistance when your wound is severe , as I did after Davey sank his spur into me .
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Ketzirah Lesser & Art Drauglis/Flickr
Ana Hotaling
