Chicken Butts

[k625]

I really wish I had a picture of this to show everyone...I have 4 baby silkie chicks, and they are about 2 weeks old now. I was checking chick butts and have noticed that 3 of the 4 have feathers all the way up to their anus and all the way around. The 4th one on the other hand, is kind of bald around the anus. Is there any reason for this? Is this a rooster/hen thing? If anyone has any ideas please let me know. Even if its just a guess! Thanks so much everyone.

Katie

 

[silkiechicken]

The bald ones probably got picked on. They should have feathers all around their vents.

 

[rosyposyosy]

my lone chick has a naked butt. i havent been pecking at it

 

[mamading]

The chickens (no matter what age) will peck at it on themselves. It's part of their preening. I've even seen my silkies raise a foot up and pick the stuff off that is stuck to the feathers on their feet and legs.

 

[silkiechicken]

Quote:

That gave me the funniest image in my head.

 

[k625]

Ok, well that is good to know then. Thank you all for responding, I really appreciate it!