Bare backed chicks

[Photoman]

Can anyone tell me what is going on with several of my chicks having the feathers missing from their backs? I’ve added a photo.

 

[nuthatched]

Exactly how big is that brooder? How many birds are in it?
Your little cockerels can go outside, I image the conditions are causing the issue

 

[Photoman]

Exactly how big is that brooder? How many birds are in it?
Your little cockerels can go outside, I image the conditions are causing the issue

I’m a newbie so don’t be too hard on me. It is a 3x8’ brooder with 51 chicks ranging from 4 to 6 weeks old. I plan on putting the biggest ones outside tomorrow while I build the 2nd chick-shaw for the next batch.

 

[Photoman]

I’ve moved half of them outside, while observing them I noticed that they will get behind each other and claw at the others back. I’m thinking they are just mean MFers.

 

[JacinLarkwell]

That's pretty tight for birds that age. They're likely just bored and cramped

 

[Photoman]

They are all outside now and their feathers are coming back. Thanks for all the advice. My only worry now are the hawks!