Broken feathers?

[Marshyos]

My hens have had no problems with feathers for awhile, but recently their feathers look like they're broken or ripped off. Some feathers just aren’t there, and some are snapped half way in a V shape, and are very spiky. Is this mites? There are too many broken to be pecking. I’m very worried about them, and our strongest hen has been bullying others for their missing feathers. Please help!

 

[MysteryChicken]

Do you have any roosters?

 

[cherrynberry]

Pictures?

 

[Marshyos]

Do you have any roosters?

No roosters, just hens

 

[Marshyos]

Pictures?

I cannot take any pictures now because they’re asleep, but tomorrow I will take some of the most affected hens!

 

[Marshyos]

Pictures?

here is a picture of one of the most affected hens! Her feathers are very spiky and broken.. I couldn’t get a very detailed picture because I didn’t want to make her upset, but if you need more pictures, I can get some better ones later!

 

[cherrynberry]

Still laying?

 

[cmom]

https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/thoughts-s-about-mites.1408596/post-23124940

I would check the birds over at night after they roost. Some mites only bother the birds at night. I use a headlamp so I have both of my hands free to check over the birds. Good luck...

 

[Meredith Brouillette]

Consider adding minerals and vitamins to their feed for a couple of days. Did you see picking on one another?

 

[Marshyos]

Still laying?

Yes! all of them lay their eggs just fine. They are all only about a year and a half old!