Chicken Boredom and Feather Picking

[Fire-Chicken]

JanetS,

My coop is 4'x8' on both top and bottom. Also, if youre looking for a GREAT electric fence company, go to Zareba

zarebasystems.com

I have nothing but VERY POSITIVE things to say about them. And, you can usually get a great electric fence at a cheap price in their clearence section / tab. Don't forget the insulators, wire, and underground insulated wire. Good luck with your purchase. Let me know if you have any questions. I would also look into getting a hunting / scouting camera to keep an eye on the predators habits.

Also, I dont have windows due to our bobcats, raccoons, and bears, but, i did install 2 - 6"x12" eve vents on the sides of the coop for ventilation. The roof also has a ridge vent and cap, with a 1" opening to provide for good circulation.

Thanks for the molting tip. How did you deduce that they were molting instead of mites, or, picking? My girls are losing some tail feathers, as well as, some down feathers on thier back, under the top feathers. And, its only 2 reds, not the Buffs. That's what makes me think they may be molting. I may sprinkle them with Seven just in case.

Thanks again!

 

[Fire-Chicken]

SassyKat,

Oh the irony! Yesterday, I went to our local farm / garden center to see what they recomended for little critters, that causse havoc on our birds. They recomended Sevin also! I laughed and though they were crazy. So, it's safe ??? How long have you been using it? Any side effects? What is they inhale and / or ingest it ?