red marks on chicken's feet and legs - Ask Extension
An older chicken layer has red marks on her feet and legs. Difficulty walking.
Knowledgebase
red marks on chicken's feet and legs #924195
Asked February 03, 2026, 4:48 PM EST
An older chicken layer has red marks on her feet and legs. Difficulty walking.
Alachua County Florida
Expert Response
Do you have any photos?
Dear Dr. Jacquie Jacob,
Attached are a few photos of the chicken I was inquiring about.
"Chicken A", with the marked legs - which, upon closer examination has some mites as well, and has some patches of bare skin.
I'll send photos of Chicken B, with other issue, in a second mail
Thanks,
Alexander
On Wednesday, February 4, 2026 at 07:34:06 PM EST, Ask Extension wrote:
Dear Dr. Jacquie Jacob,
A second chicken in my flock has some blood in her stools.
Photos are attached.
Thanks again,
Alexander
On Wednesday, February 4, 2026 at 07:34:06 PM EST, Ask Extension wrote:
The things at the base of the feathers appear to be lice. You need to treat the birds and the house. See article at EXTERNAL PARASITES OF POULTRY – Small and backyard poultry
The fecal droppings appear to be more than just blood - some lining of the digestive tract. If it is only one chicken should pass, but you might consider giving your flock a probiotic to help with digestive health.
The red shanks are a sign of ill health. Could be the result of digestive upset or the lice. Keep an eye out for worms since that can cause it too.
Thank you very much.
Alex
On Monday, February 9, 2026 at 11:08:32 AM EST, Ask Extension wrote:
