Massive Feather Loss in Tail

[Joanna6]

About 10 days ago one of my 9 month old hens had massive feather loss in her tail and now most all of them show some degree of loss. No rooster. Ideas?

 

[SmiYa0126]

What are you feeding them? Are they laying?

 

[Joanna6]

Yes, still laying. Got 6 eggs this morning. Feeding Purina Organic Pullet Crumbles 16% protein. Also, treats of pumpkin, apple, mealworms. Have added Iams dry cat food at 32% protein to see if that helps per some advice.

 

[BlueBaby]

It look's to me like one or more of the other chicken's have plucked the feather's in that area. Maybe they need more protein or calcium?

 

[Joanna6]

It look's to me like one or more of the other chicken's have plucked the feather's in that area. Maybe they need more protein or calcium?

I've watched when I let them free range and don't notice anyone being aggressive, but someone says they will act differently when being watched--don't we all. I've added dry Iams cat food at 32% protein. Have contacted our local agricultural lab and they said to bring in a fecal sample on Monday in case it's worms. But wondering if there is anything more to do in the mean time. They have 12 1/4 sq feet of space per chicken and the agricultural specialist I spoke to said that should be enough. At a loss for ideas.

 

[SmiYa0126]

Either they're pulling them out or you have another hen that's pulling them. Can you stop the treats and monitor their crops at night? See if everyone is eating well.

 

[21hens-incharge]

What are your roosts set up like?
Sometimes they will pluck their neighbor while roosting.

 

[LaFleche]

Find the hen with still perfectly feathered butt and separate her from the others. She most likely is the culprit or at least instigator.