Help... Skin feather issue

[Arkkeeper]

Not sure what this is and what to do. Please help if you know what this is and treatment! Thank you!

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

What part of the bird? I believe it's the base of the tail, than that would be the oil preen gland. I also see new feather growth, the base of the feathers still have their sheath. I'm not sure what the black stuff is.

 

[Arkkeeper]

It is at the base and I think you're right about the oil gland just not sure I I should be concerned about the black stuff or not. He seems to be leaking oil lol

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

My guess is the black is just dirt. New feathers can be tender to the touch so they may not preen as much when growing some in. It wouldn't hurt to give it a dust will a pyrethrin based poultry dust just in case it's from external parasites. I usually hold them by the legs with their chests on the ground that I sprinkle the dust on them while hold my breath. I rub it around than let them go.

 

[Arkkeeper]

Thank you I will try that! He is getting a ton of new feathers and very tender to touch. My husband learned the hard way and he got his hand.