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Wry Neck

Other Names: Torticollis, Stargazing, Twisted Neck

Wry neck, also known as torticollis, twisted neck, stargazing, limber neck and crooked neck is a clinical sign where the chicken's neck is bent and twisted so that their head is oriented towards the left or right side, upwards or downward. It is associated with disorders of the vestibular system. It can be caused by genetics, vitamin deficiencies, trauma, tumors, viruses, bacteria, parasites, protozoa, toxins and fungi.

Congenital-associated
Nutrition-associated
  • Vitamin deficiencies: Vitamin E and thiamine deficiencies.
  • Ergotism
  • Soybean or lupine based diets: Wry neck has occurred in flocks fed soybean and lupine based diets.
InfectiousOther reasons
Treatment depends on the cause. The chicken will require supportive care and should be closely monitored.

Clinical Signs

Abnormally positioned head/neck

Diagnosis

  • History
  • Clinical signs
  • Physical exam
  • lab tests

Treatment

NameSummary
Supportive careIsolate the bird from the flock and place in a safe, comfortable, warm location (your own chicken "intensive care unit") with easy access to water and food. Limit stress. Call your veterinarian.
Treatment depends on the cause
Provide supplemental Vitamins E and B

Support

Prevention

  • Feed a well-balanced diet appropriate for chicken age group and type
  • Biosecurity

Scientific References

Age Range

Can occur at any age; however it is most frequently seen in newly hatched chicks related to vitamin deficiencies.

Risk Factors

  • Incorrect incubation parameters
  • Poor nutritional diet
  • Adult chickens used for breeding who do not receive additional nutrients needed for chicks (often occurs when fed food intended for laying hens or when just feeding scratch)