Friday, July 29, 2011

Poultrygeist Part 2


I finally know why I am losing all of my birds!!!

I received the autopsy and it shows they are suffering from a virus called Marek's disease. It's a herpes virus.  I think I kissed them when they were baby chicks but I am told it does not transfer to humans so I am good to go. BLAH. I am just glad this is over. It's not a mystery anymore. I feel so bad for the chickens who are not even sick yet because they have to be put down. It's only a matter of time before they also get it and they will just pass it along to the others. I have gone through almost 30 birds...ridiculous.

I was told to clean out the hen house and wait six weeks before I brought in new chickens. I have to order pullets that have been vaccinated against Mareks because it's very hard to get rid of. I knew hatcheries mailed baby chickens but I had no idea they would mail teenage chickens.

This will be my last attempt. If they keep dying after this I will hang up the egg endeavor just like I gave up on fish. So far I can't keep plants, fish, or chickens alive. Now my next step is to say goodbye to last three chickens and then start researching hatcheries.
SIGH.................

1 comment:

  1. I have 3 neglected chickens that refuse to die...SIGH
    Drenna

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