[Stemar]

Hi there

We've just rehomed some ex-batts. All 3 appear to be in reasonable condition but I have noticed they have long nails.

When we collected hens I noticed some were having their nails clipped but ours appear not to have had this done. Does this matter? Or will their nails naturally 'file' down now that they are able to scratch around?

Maria

[ANHBUC]

Hi Stemar, it would depend on how overgrown the claws are and what surface they are going to be kept on.  I don't think ex-batts always know how to scratch around though.  If they are really too long they will need clipping.  I have done my hens and quails with a small pets nail clipper which works well.  Only take a little off at a time and be careful not to go as far as the quick.  This is not always visible so err on the side of caution.  Best to wash their feet first which will deter infection if you do catch the quick.  Have some wound powder handy or use corn flour as an emergency alternative. 

Well done on saving your girls, we look forward to seeing some photos.  Probably before and after if they are looking a bit scruffy at the moment.   

[Stemar]

Thank you Anhbuc  for your reply. I will take your tips to clip their nails. 

They are kept on earth - no longer any grass, older chickens cleared a long time ago! We only collected them on Sunday so they are partitioned away from original girls. I did notice one of them starting to scratch the ground this morning but they are ignoring the hanging cabbage and are not over impressed with the small amounts of corn I have scattered - when they are merged with original girls I am sure they will follow their example.

It is really pleasing watching them thrive each day. Within 24hrs of bringing them home their combs changed from very pale cream colour to faint pink and colour getting bolder with each day.

Unsure about photos, computer skills fairly limited but no doubt one of my sons will show me :

Regards
Maria

[ANHBUC]

Glad they are settling in, I am sure they will really start to thrive.

The information on posting photos is HERE.  If you get stuck just ask for help.   

[Mum2mj]

Hi, you'll see big changes in them really quickly. It's very rewarding and they pick up their usual chickeney behaviours really quickly