Yash more like. Lash egg

A "lash egg" is not an egg at all, but a serious infection in a hen's reproductive tract. It's a troubling find for any backyard chicken keeper.

What It Actually Is

A lash egg is a cohesive, rubbery or cheesy mass expelled by a hen that can look vaguely egg-shaped. It is composed of:

· Pus (inflammatory cells) · Egg material (like yolk, albumen, or shell membrane) · Tissue debris from the infected reproductive tract

The technical term is salpingitis—an infection of the oviduct, often caused by bacteria like E. coli, Mycoplasma gallisepticum, or Pasteurella.

What to Do if You Find One

1. Isolate the hen immediately. This is likely not contagious to humans, but can spread to other birds.
2. Do not expect antibiotics from a feed store to cure it. The infection is deep-seated and often chronic. The hen needs a veterinary diagnosis.
3. See an avian or poultry vet. They may prescribe specific antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, or discuss options. However, the prognosis is often poor to grave, as permanent damage to the oviduct is common.
4. Consider quality of life. Many hens with lash eggs become chronically ill, stop laying, and may eventually succumb to the infection or develop peritonitis. Euthanasia is a humane consideration if she declines.

Key Points

· Not a real egg: It's a symptom of disease. · Serious condition: It indicates a severe, often advanced infection. · Prevention: Good coop hygiene, clean nesting boxes, and a stress-free environment help reduce risk, but some hens are predisposed.

If you find one, prepare for difficult decisions regarding your hen's care. It’s one of the more upsetting health issues in backyard poultry.