hen pulling out feathers

[ranchorobinson]

hi, I have three hens. One of them is loosing feathers around her neck and her wings. I think the other two hens may have started pecking her (although there's no blood and they still sleep in the same nest togther).

the hen may also be pulling some of the feathers out herself.

Is this normal? they have never done it before and all three having been living happily togther for about 2 years.

please help

jen

 

[ranchorobinson]

can anyone help me? I welcome any advice.....

thanks jen

 

[bayouchica]

Hi there, Could be pecking order issues with your hens.
How much protein percent is in their feed? They may need more protein in their diet. Try some dry cat food.
Also they could have mites or lice. To check for bugs on your birds look under their vent area or behind the neck, might be easier to check at night. If you find bugs on them you need to completely clean the coop & nestboxes.
Your feed store may have some poultry dust to put either on them or in the dust bath area. I use food grade diamacetous (sp?) earth & put it in their dusting spot.
I can't think of anything else, maybe someone else can offer some more advice.
Miriam