Rooster with bare back

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carollight

carollight

Hatching
Jun 21, 2015
5
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Hello, I have one Americana rooster with about 30 hens. I have put saddles on several of the hens because their back are bare from mating. Now the rooster's back is getting bare in front of his tail, I don't think he is molting in late May. He takes dust baths along with the girls. Might a hen be dominating him? How do I check to be sure its not mites? Thanks for your help!
 
I've seen some hens sometimes pluck feathers off the roosters. I haven't been able to figure out why, it does seem to be done in a form of affection. I wouldn't worry about it.
 
Welcome to BYC!
Wonders if the bird are eating the feathers? Might need more protein.

How to check them over real well for mites and/or lice:
Best done well after dark with a strong flashlight/headlight, easier to 'catch' bird and also to check for the mites that live in structure and only come out at night to feed off roosting birds.
Part the feathers right down to the skin around vent, head/neck and under wings.
Google images of lice/mites and their eggs before the inspection so you'll know what you're looking for.
If I find bugs then I use a poultry dust with permethrin, feathers still won't grow back until a molt tho.
 
Last edited:
Thank you for the input! I will check for mites and give some extra protein. Hopefully it is just a sign of affection from the ladies!
 

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