3 month old Welsummer Roo lost tail feathers

[peepjoy]

Hi, I have a 3 month old welsummer roo that seems really healthy, but has lost his tail feathers. He is looking a little ratty with new neck feathers coming in and I am wondering if this is part of his natural growth process.

I have 9 hens and two other roos (which are going to good homes shortly), but I have never seen anyone fighting or anything like that. No one else has lost tail feathers. Anyone out there with any ideas?

Thanks,
concerned chicken mom

 

[Elite Silkies]

He may be loosing his juvenile feathers and growing his adult feathers.

 

[peepjoy]

Thanks for the quick response.

That's what it seems like, but I didn't expect him to lose tail feathers.

It's funny, unlike the other roos (1 BR and 1 PR), he has definitely gone through some awkward stages. Is that inherent to his breed?

I know he is going to be sooo beautiful, but right now, he looks like a gangly teenager...lol!