Back feathers are missing - injury or diet related?

[AmandaandIsmo]

Hi! Hoping someone might be able to give me some guidance... I have a couple of my girls who are losing feathers in a specific spot on their back (right at the base of their tail)... wondering if this is something dietary related? Is the rooster too rough with them? Or something else I’m missing ... ? Any insight is greatly appreciated. TIA.

 

[sourland]

It may be mating damage, but looks more like feather pecking/plucking by a flock mate - generally the bird with the best feather condition is the culprit.

 

[Eggcessive]

That looks like overmating by the rooster. It also can be feather picking. You could try some hen saddles or make your own to cover and protect the bare spot, or separate your rooster in a crate with his own food and water. He could still be near them. The feathers may not grow back in until they go through a molt around 16-18 months old. I have made some one piece no sew polar fleece with slits cut for the wings. You can also buy them. Here are a couple of links:
http://www.linnacresfarm.com/2014/04/how-to-make-simple-hen-saddleapron.html

Here is a link for buying some:
http://www.hensaver.com/FAQ.html

 

[AmandaandIsmo]

That looks like overmating by the rooster. It also can be feather picking. You could try some hen saddles or make your own to cover and protect the bare spot, or separate your rooster in a crate with his own food and water. He could still be near them. The feathers may not grow back in until they go through a molt around 16-18 months old. I have made some one piece no sew polar fleece with slits cut for the wings. You can also buy them. Here are a couple of links:
http://www.linnacresfarm.com/2014/04/how-to-make-simple-hen-saddleapron.htmlView attachment 2068774

Here is a link for buying some:
http://www.hensaver.com/FAQ.html

That looks like overmating by the rooster. It also can be feather picking. You could try some hen saddles or make your own to cover and protect the bare spot, or separate your rooster in a crate with his own food and water. He could still be near them. The feathers may not grow back in until they go through a molt around 16-18 months old. I have made some one piece no sew polar fleece with slits cut for the wings. You can also buy them. Here are a couple of links:
http://www.linnacresfarm.com/2014/04/how-to-make-simple-hen-saddleapron.htmlView attachment 2068774

Here is a link for buying some:
http://www.hensaver.com/FAQ.html

This is so helpful!!! Thank you so much!!

 

[AmandaandIsmo]

It may be mating damage, but looks more like feather pecking/plucking by a flock mate - generally the bird with the best feather condition is the culprit.

Thank you!!