[nic n dave]

hi my chickens are currently running around in the garden and ve gone out there and one of them whos in a very long moult looked like something was on her skin near the top of the tail feathers, looked creamy coloured and abouth the size of a tumb nail in lenghth and thinish, i hoping ive just a bit of dirt where shes she been in the dust bath, but could it be something else, i couldnt catch her to get a better look

[nic n dave]

just had another look and now cant see anything? ive just booked her in with my vet but dont wanna take her if im just being silly

[joyfull]

are you sure it isn't her preen gland?

[joyfull]

here you go:-

http://www.chickeneggspert.com/chicken-behavior/feather-preening/34.asp

[nic n dave]

it did look like that! im a total amature -n obviously ive seen them preen themselves but had no idea that was there? i think she was pecking at herself :/
think i need to invest in a chicken book

[joyfull]

glad it isn't anything serious - you can cancel the vets appointment now 

[DD.]

think i need to invest in a chicken book

http://www.allotment-garden.org/book/backgarden-chickens.php

[viettaclark]

Don't worry! When I first started keeping hens I noticed a yucky maggot thing growing out of the skin at the base of the tail feathers and I freaked!!! They were trying to pull it out with their beaks and it was gross.
Preen gland. m'dear......phew....

[Beano]

The thing is nic n dave, you were willing to take her to the vet as soon as you thought there was something wrong. Big "TICK" for that. You obviously have the right attitude. The knowledge comes a little at a time with experience and even then, no one knows it all.
Your chickens are in good hands.
I love your reply viettaclark.