A chicken's comb is a really good health indicator for you to see the condition of your bird. There are various types of chicken combs as well depending on the breed but they all are there to do the same thing.
Hens lack the ability to sweat so cant regulate their body temperature. The comb and wattles are designed to regulate the bird's body heat. When they are too hot blood goes into the comb and can stay cooler and release some heat into the air. In the colder months it can prevent heat loss. The comb is technically classed as an organ and is rich with blood vessels that's why if they ever fight they can lose an enormous amount of blood from their combs and it could be potentially life threatening.
A mature hen should have a red looking healthy comb and anything other than this could indicate a health problem. Look out for discolouration, drooping and frostbite.
- Discoloured Combs - This could indicate respiratory problems. Purple combs could indicate a common cold, stroke or in worst case scenarios a heart attack. Pale combs could be caused by parasites or dehydration.
- Shrunken Combs - Another sign of parasites and worms, heat exhaustion or it simply could be they are going through the moult.
- Black tips or areas of comb - This could be frostbite. If the weather has been cold it is possible for your birds to suffer from this. Larger combs birds tend to be more prone.
FUN FACT: Hens with larger combs tend to lay more eggs.
HEN ATTRACTION
Hens know that a cockerels comb is a sign of strength and vitality so when looking for a mate they go for the one that to them is eye catching and large. It means he is fit and healthy and their offspring have the best chance of survival. Combs and wattles can also help chickens recognise their friends in the coup.
CLICK HERE FOR COMMON COMB PROBLEMS AND WHAT TO DO ABOUT THEM.
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