Most chicken keepers know about common ailments like bumblefoot and mites, but what about the lesser-known conditions that can affect your flock? In this comprehensive guest article, Jeff explores five unusual poultry health issues that often go unrecognized—from harmless conditions frequently misdiagnosed as diseases, to serious respiratory infections with high mortality rates. Drawing from his book “Parasites, Diseases, and Disorders of Poultry,” Jeff explains the symptoms, causes, and treatments (when available) for conditions including hyaluronic acid crystals, avian metapneumovirus, Derzsy’s disease, gout in chickens, and hypocalcemia. This practical guide helps poultry owners distinguish between dangerous diseases and benign conditions, potentially saving both worry and vet bills.