NonEmergent possible sick hens

[Sassysouth]

I have 2 hens that I think maybe sick. They have lost feathers around their face and necks, they are thin and their crops are empty, but I see them eating. They have those crazy, stressed eyes and are sticking close to each other. I haven’t seen any type of fighting, feather pulling etc.
My other 7 are fine. My run and coop are are roomy and great, so that is not the issue. Thanks.
Easter Egger

Barnevelder

 

[azygous]

Those chickens are molting. Notice the uniform emergence of new pin feathers. How old are they?

They may be behaving differently because molt saps the appetite and makes chickens slow down and feel weak. Extra feedings such as soft boiled egg, tofu, and canned mackerel help.

 

[Sassysouth]

Those chickens are molting. Notice the uniform emergence of new pin feathers. How old are they?

They may be behaving differently because molt saps the appetite and makes chickens slow down and feel weak. Extra feedings such as soft boiled egg, tofu, and canned mackerel help.

They are 9-10 months old, bought at different locations, but the same time. I have had chickens for a few years, but I have NEVER had any to really molt, especially look like this. I have seen pictures and know they can look rough, but wasn’t sure about these.

 

[azygous]

I have one nine-month old molting around her neck like these hens. Are they currently laying?

There may be another reason for the feather loss. Have you inspected your coop for coop mites?

 

[Sassysouth]

I have one nine-month old molting around her neck like these hens. Are they currently laying?

There may be another reason for the feather loss. Have you inspected your coop for coop mites?

I have checked them over well for lice and mites. All the poops look normal. I have no idea who is laying, but I don’t think so.

ETA: I will give them some high protein tomorrow, but I did give them a dose of Nutri-drench this evening.

 

[aart]

Just looks like a partial pullet molt....have had several do that their first fall/winter.

 

[pennyJo1960]

Possible feather picking ? JMHO because it is around the face

 

[micstrachan]

I agree it’s likely molt. More of mine have molted their first year than not (but not this year’s pullets, for whatever reason.)