Backyard Fowl Keepers

Hello everyone,

Im worried about my almost 3-year-old Buff Orpington rooster. Hes always been healthy and active, but recently, Ive noticed some concerning changes. His comb has become floppy and has developed purplish-gray patches. Additionally, he seems less energetic and isnt as interested in food, which is very unlike him.

We recently had a sharp temperature dropit's now getting down to 18F at night and around 35F during the day. The flock has a heat lamp in their coop and free access to go inside or out to the pasture. Despite this, today when I went out to feed them scraps, my rooster stood off to the side instead of joining the hens. His posture seemed withdrawn, with his head tucked into his neck, and I could just tell he wasnt himself.

Could this be frostbite, poor circulation, or something else? Should I be worried about illness? Any advice or similar experiences would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance!

If he's avoiding food, try offering something enticing like warm mash. Dehydration can also make symptoms worse,check if he's drinking properly.

A comb turning purple or grayish can be due to frostbite, heart issues, or even an underlying infection. Since he's also lethargic, I'd check for mites or lice, which can cause anemia and weakness. If his droppings look normal and his breathing is clear, it might just be the cold stressing him. Try giving him some warm water with electrolytes to see if that perks him up.

If it's just the comb changing color but he's eating and drinking normally, he might recover on his own. Keep an eye on his energy levels.

Sometimes sudden cold snaps can stress birds, making them more susceptible to illness. The fact that his comb is discolored and he's acting withdrawn could indicate something more serious, like heart strain or even the early stages of illness. If he's the only rooster, he doesn't have competition, so it's odd that he's standing off. Keep a close eye on him, and maybe bring him inside for observation if he doesn't improve in a day or two.

Roosters can sometimes be more sensitive to the cold than hens. If the heat lamp isn't enough, consider additional wind protection or a temporary indoor setup.

Purplish combs can indicate heart issues or respiratory problems. Check his breathing and watch for any wheezing or nasal discharge.

Could be early frostbite or a sign of stress. Make sure there's no bullying going on and observe how he acts overnight.

A drooping, purplish comb can signal circulatory problems, possibly due to cold temperatures affecting blood flow. If he's also acting withdrawn and not eating, I'd suggest isolating him temporarily in a warmer environment to see if his condition improves. Keep an eye on his breathing,if he's gasping, wheezing, or showing nasal discharge, respiratory issues could be at play. Also, ensure he's hydrated, as dehydration can make symptoms worse. If you don't see improvement within 24 hours, a vet visit may be necessary.

Frostbite is a strong possibility, but other factors could be at play. Cold weather can cause circulation issues, and a purple comb sometimes suggests oxygenation problems. Have you checked his feet? Sometimes frostbite affects both the comb and toes. Keep him dry, warm, and well-fed with high-energy treats. If his condition worsens, it might be time to consult a vet.