8 week old Barnevelders

[Hanwell Hens]

Hi there.

So I have 2 barnevelders which I think are one male one female but the one I think is a male has no tails feathers.

Is this normal?

Cheers

 

[Pampered chicken girl]

Pictures are the only way we can help.
@Overo Mare @NatJ

 

[Hanwell Hens]

That's odd I thought I have added photos.
I'll try again

 

[Hanwell Hens]

This is the girl

 

[Hanwell Hens]

And this the boy with no tail

 

[Pampered chicken girl]

And this the boy with no tail

I don't know why he has no tail. It's Definitely a he.

This is the girl

Definitely girl

 

[Hanwell Hens]

That's what I thought

 

[Tonyroo]

Check your hen's face around her eyes. In the picture it looks like she has mites on it.

 

[Painted Calls]

Check your hen's face around her eyes. In the picture it looks like she has mites on it.

Good catch. I see it too.

If they have external parasites, it could explain the missing tail. If not, sometimes birds are just slow to get all their feathers. Do a parasite check (and take care of those if present) and then don't worry about his tail. It will grow in when it's ready.

 

[Hanwell Hens]

Oh god really. I will have a closer look.
I haven't handled them much as mum has been so protective. Now she's away from them I'll be able to pick her up.