Ameracuana hen lost feathers around neck/chest

[pete56]

I have 4, 3-4 year old hens. One lost feathers around neck, chest and legs. Generally looks ragged. Otherwise seems healthy and happy. This has been ongoing for approx 6 months. I have not seen other hens pecking her, although there is no rooster in the group. Recently, her green eggs have brown spots making the eggs speckled. I feed laying mash with lots of greens and fresh water. I am in a hot, dry, desert climate. Their coop is 6' x 8' and their outside space is 10' x 20'. I want to bring a rooster and more hens home, but want to know what I'm dealing with here first. I would like to treat her myself, if possible. Suggestions?

 

[speckledhen]

Some have issues getting feathers back after a molt. I have one hen who has a bare neck several times a year. No mites/lice here and she gets plenty of protein. Up the protein by adding canned salmon or mackerel a few times a week and see if that helps. Be sure not to give too many treats, which would lower the protein content for her. They need that to grow new plumage. Do be sure to dust her for pests, just in case.

 

[pete56]

speckledhen - thank you for the info - I appreciate it.

 

[Mahonri]

Yes, I'd do poultry dust (sevin or some other)

And I'd be certain that they have plenty of protien. My girls are spoiled and get a can of salmon to share once a week.