Bald back

[Unkledon]

I have several laying hens, about 1 1/2 years old of varying breeds--buff orpington, black austrolorp (sp?), etc, who have lost their feathers--seems permanently--above their tails. At first I thought it was the two roosters riding them too hard, so one rooster went in the pot, and the ratio is now one to ten hens, but three hens still have no feathers above their backs. Otherwise they seem healthy. Any ideas?

Unkledon

 

[HorseFeatherz NV]

Often the backs of the Roo's favorite hens will be bare, I cover them with aprons. Also a softer feathered hen like an Orp or Cochin, will have the feathers tear easier than a harder feathered hen.

You can also trim your Roo's nails.

 

[Miss Lydia]

Have you also looked them over real good for mites and lice?

 

[Unkledon]

Thanks, Horse Feathers and Lydia. I will get up close to look for mites.

Unkledon

 

[Causin Chaos]

Maybe the other hens are feather pecking? If so you can spray Blue Kote on the bald spots. It really heped mine grown the feathers back. Chickens dont see that color as well as red or pinkish skin. Good luck