2 week old laying hens picking tail feathers until bloody

[beckyjo]

Within the last 3 hours 6 of my chicks have lost their tail feathers. They are bleeding and I fear they will all die. I can't seperate all of them! There are many of them picking. Why!?! This is my second batch of laying hens and the first group never did this! Help!

 

[Chick Charm]

With limited knowledge of your exact situation and set up, my first guesses would be 1) Overcrowding in the brooder and 2) It may be too hot.

You may want to try a Black light or a Red light if not already using one. I have heard (never tried it) that a black light keeps chicks quiet and calm especially at night.

I had a batch of Brown leghorns a couple of years ago that did this from the breeder I got them from and it was overly crowded fro sure.

Wish you the best.

 

[beckyjo]

Thanks. I think you're right. I just freaked out a bit there. It was the hottest day yet and I had their heat lamp on them. I have separated them into more containers and hope the injured ones heal quickly.
Thanks!