Double-bottomed chicken foxes the vets

A poultry supplier in East Sussex has discovered that one of its hybrid layers has two bottoms (or to use the technical term “vents”).

Paula Miller, who helps run Martins Wood Farm near Lewes, said she first discovered the abnormality when she segregated the blue haze hybrid on account of her “mucky rear end”.

But on closer inspection it emerged that this was the result of having an extra orifice.

“I have since researched this myself and have only come across one case like it in America a few years ago. It seems this girl is very special indeed.”
Paula Miller

Miss Miller emailed photos of the bird to The Chicken Vet, which then shared the photos with other specialist poultry vets, but none of them had ever seen anything like it.

“I have since researched this myself and have only come across one case like it in America a few years ago. It seems this girl is very special indeed.”

The bird is now 34-weeks old and has rejoined the rest of the laying flock. Miss Miller says she is unsure if both vents are “active”, but confirms that the hen is laying at least one egg a day.

If anyone has ever come across anything similar, she would like to hear on 01323 811877, or post your views on our forum thread.