[Boroboy]

we have cleaned out our garden pond and emptied the silt and dirty water onto the garden, we noticed one off our hens rummiging through it, the hen now wont eat but drinks alot and took herself to bed early, have we caused her serious harm or will she be fine in the morning?

[karlooben]

i dont you will of done as they can pretty much pick up anything while they free range although hopfully someone else with more knowlegde of hens an ponds will soon be on to ansswer this , but has it been hot where you are i have noticed one of mine yet agian has gone quiet an drinks loads but doesnt eat much and it always seems to be when its hot .

[poultrygeist]

Hi boroboy. Welcome 

I'd keep a close eye on her. When you let her out in the morning, check her crop immediately before she eats anything. It should be pretty flat and empty but if it's bloated or swollen like a water filled balloon, it means she's infected her crop.

I can't imagine she'll have anything more serious from it though. There'll be someone around to give advice if you need further help in the morning.

Rob

[IMOmimey]

I'll second that, check her crop as she gets out of bed in the morning. Keep us posted on here, and we'll try to help if you need us

[Boroboy]

Hi thanks for all your advice, she was fine this morning and I think we panicked to soon, we are still learning as we have only had the birds a few weeks.  Its good to know where to come for help in the future. 

[joyfull]

So pleased she is ok - I find them more nerve wracking than having kids 

[dizzylizzie]

I'll second that joyfull 

[Flowerpower136]

I'll third it!

[karlooben]

i cant forth it  unless i am allowed to class a phsyco puppy as a child .

am glad shes better