Both RIR have missing soft butt feathers

[SweetAdelaide]

I have 9 hens (no rooster). 3 Barred Rocks, 2 Australorps, 2 Ameraucanas, and the Rhodies. I noticed last night that both RIRs have some of their soft butt feathers missing. They are all almost 10 months and healthy by all behaviors and appearances.

I did a spot check of other 7 and no signs on them. I’m not sure how to tell if infestation vs molting vs feather picking. Both are pretty mid-pecking order from what I’ve seen. Thank you!

 

[SweetAdelaide]

 

[dawg53]

I dont see any evidence of mites or lice, however I recommend that you inspect them closely for external parasites, especially around the vent area where it's warm and moist.

Also, it's possible it could be a mini molt.

You'll have to observe them for a time and see if they are feather picking and eating the fluff/feathers, that's if you havnt spotted fluff/feathers on the ground. If that's the case, increase protein in their diet for about one month, then back to regular feeding.