1 month old chicks losing feathers already

[ZeldaZimm]

Have about 200 1 month old chicks that are losing their feathers on their backs. What could be the matter? I wish I could attach a picture to show you.

 

[RodNTN]

I am glad you joined us! But I am very sorry about your chicks! It might be picking, if they are too crammed they can get agitated and start picking at each other. And if they aren't given more room in their brooder, it might turn nasty.
Do they have enough room? And are there enough waterers and feeders for them? If not, I would give some more room, increase their feeding and watering stations, and see if it helps. I hope you enjoy BYC! Best wishes!

 

[junebuggena]

At 4 weeks old, that kind of feather loss is usually caused by feather picking, induced by overcrowded conditions. At their age, they need about 2 sq ft of brooder space per chick. Chicks double in size each week, and their space needs double with them till about 6 weeks of age, when the growth rate begins to slow.

 

[redsoxs]

Greetings from Kansas and

! Great to have you aboard! I agree with the responses above - sounds like overcrowding. Hope you get it sorted out. Best wishes and thanks for joining BYC!

 

[Teila]

G’Day from down under ZeldaZimm

Welcome!

At the risk of sounding like an echo, I agree that space may be the cause. Good luck with your little ones.

I hope you enjoy BYC. There are lots of friendly and very helpful folks here so not only is it overflowing with useful information it is also a great place to make friends and have some fun. Unlike non chicken loving friends, family and colleagues, BYC’ers never tire of stories or pictures that feature our feathered and non feathered friends

 

[drumstick diva]

when they are overcrowded they resort to some nasty behavior, feather plucking, bullying others away from feed and water, and at extremes they will gang up and peck one to death.

They also can turn cannibalistic

 

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