Feather pecking

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MartMc

MartMc

In the Brooder
7 Years
Jan 2, 2013
47
0
22
Hi guys,
Why is one of my hens consintly looking to try and peck feathers from my others hens and eat them?? Any help would be great!!!
 
It could be due to several factors- lack of space, boredom, lack of protein or she could just be a bully.
I've never had a feather picking problem, but my birds have lots of space and eat a gamebird feed that is slightly higher in protein than normal chicken feed (which I've read are the two biggest causes).
I'd take a good look at your set up, read the label on your feed bag or just sit out and watch to see if you can figure out what is setting her off if those aren't the causes.
Hanging a head of cabbage or lettuce or giving them a pumpkin to pick thru are great for keeping them entertained. Good luck.
Nikki
 
I've had feather pecking too. Try giving them a little more protein and something to keep them from being board. Also, if it is only one bird, check out pinless peepers for her. If the pecking goes on to long, she could teach others to peck too. I had a few peckers and didn't nip it in the bud last year and eventually they were all pecking and I had to send all 12 to freezer camp and start over with new chicks. Do a search on feather pecking or picking and you will find a great deal of info on these boards. If you live where winters get cold feather pecking can be a real problem with keeping your chickens warm too. Good luck.
 

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