Bare spot at base of tail

[Lynn]

Hi,

What an active forum! I am new here, and hope someone can answer what is probably a stupid question. I have some 3-month-old Ameraucana (Easter Egger) pullets who seem to be doing just fine. But I have noticed that two of them have bare spots--missing feathers--right above the base of the tail. There is stubble there, like feathers are either growing in, or have broken off. The skin looks normal (to me), I don't see any bleeding or scabs or scales or lesions, rash, anything like that.

Is this normal? Is it from others picking on them and pulling out feathers (they do sometimes goose each other)? Or is this a health issue/symptom? I don't recall seeing this on the last batch we raised from chicks, but maybe I just don't remember it.

Thanks for any info!

Lynn
Moss Hollowe Play Farm
The Dark Corner, SC

 

[beautifulbirds]

Hi Lynn I have a bare backed hen - see LOSS OF PLUMAGE. It's either a bug, food or social issue the question is - which one? I guess you have to treat for all three, well that's what I have narrowed it down to. Hope this helps. The main query is how do you get the feathers replaced? If you can tell me that then we will both be in the money, or is it feathers Let me know what you think.

 

[rooster-red]

Do you have a rooster?

 

[Lynn]

Hey Beautifulbirds! Thanks for the reply... I did read your post and the replies, and I wondered if yours would be due to over activity by the roosters. I have heard that that can occur--and from what I understand, it would be higher up on the back and shoulders area. I can't remember now if you indicated any lethargy or other symptoms?

Sure wish I had as many answers as I do questions!! Good luck with yours... I'm sure they will grow back. They lose them with molting, and they always grow back. Are you seeing any stubble?

Lynn

 

[Lynn]

Yes, they have been separated up till now, but lately, the little bantam rooster has had to be indoors with the pullets, as he had been attacked by something. Nothing too serious (fortunately), but enough to put him off his game and need some time to heal up. He has been mostly perched and quiet all day the last few days.

Anyway, I would suspect that he is the culprit, getting "frisky" with them, even though they're still pretty young for that...except for the location of the bare spot. If it were higher up on the back, I would be putting him out the door! But the base of the tail...?

I guess I shouldn't be too worried about it, except if it is a symptom of something, illness-wise. That's why I thought I ought to ask if others had this happen and knew the cause.

Lynn
p.s. Can someone tell me what "subscribe to this topic" means on this forum? I'm total newbie!

 

[beautifulbirds]

Hi back.
No to the rooster idea as she has lost plumage on the sides, under wings etc., so I am thinking nutrition or bugs at this point. Yes to a bit of stubble.

If any of yours are off then dose them with garlic steeped in hot water, three squirts straight down their throat for three days. See my posting - sick hen for eight days.

Subscribe to topic means you can find your postings and the replies, or vice versa.

Stay in touch,
cheers
Lisa.

 

[silkiechicken]

Subscribing to a topic will have the forum email you every time there is a response to the post you subscribed to.

 

[Lynn]

Ahh, thank you! I was afraid to click the button, because I am already confused about this site... so much information and options, it's hard to navigate at first!

Lynn

 

[jeeping31]

My chickens are fine but 3 of my chickens have the same thing a quarter size bald spot at the base of the tail. Has not gotten bigger or anything just try to find out why? I have no rooster and all chickens are laying everyday.

 

[dukeis111]

My chickens are fine but 3 of my chickens have the same thing a quarter size bald spot at the base of the tail. Has not gotten bigger or anything just try to find out why? I have no rooster and all chickens are laying everyday.

don't lie! dude!