Splayed Legs (also called spraddled leg): A deformity that occurs in the nest during the chick's development. Possible causes are insufficient or improper bedding materials, the hen unintentionally sitting on the chick too much, and/or dietary imbalance. The condition is characterized by one or both legs extending laterally from the hip, instead of in the normal position downward. The condition is correctable in young chicks. If the condition is left unchecked, the bones will calcify and the condition will be permanent. For more information on splayed legs, including how to treat the deformity, see the article Splayed Leg by Wanda Barras.