[dee-green]

Last year I purchased 4 hens, one of which is now a cockerel.  This summer all three girl went broody and we put six eggs under them they all shared  the duties and hatched five chicks  who are now six weeks old.  Today on returning from work i went to chat with them and give them a few treats, when i discovered that one had a blooming head and all four wouldn't let this one near for treats.  I have removed this chick for safety.  Have I done the right thing?  Will I be able to return it when it has recovered?  As a relatively new comer to poultry i still cant decide what sex the chicks are.  Please help I hate to see this happening in my normally happy coop.

[bantam novice]

It is horrible to see    This is a great forum and there are loads of good experienced people who can offer advice.  I am not very experienced but would treat the blooming area with purple spray (gentian violet).  Unfortunately, I understand, If the others see a blooming area they will go for it even more. I am sure someone more experienced will be along to give you advice.  In the meatime good luck!  Keep us posted 

[GrannieAnnie]

You may be able to re-introduce the chick to the others.  A lot depends on the personalities of the individual chicks.  If the blooming area is covered with purple spray or something nice and smelly like UKADEX, you may be able to put it back in straight away, or you may have to wait until the area is healed a bit more.

Good luck!!!