Chickens eating feathers

[pfields]

Is it normal for chickens to eat small feathers? I've seen mine eat feathers several times now and it just about gags me. It looks like they would be so dry. It's not the big long feathers but still it's a feather.

 

[Eggcessive]

Yep. Normal. They love feathers for the extra protein. If yours get too fond of feathers try giving some extra protein in the feed or some game bird feed for treats.

 

[pfields]

Okay, thanks. They're not plucking feathers, just picking up small ones and eating them. Right now I'm feeding them H&H Soy Free Non-GMO starter. I wanted the grower but the store didn't have it. I can't get H&H where I live and was visiting a friend in Georgetown, Tx. I'm also giving them as a treat corn cobs from the garden and bird seed. My chicks are 12-13 weeks old.

 

[seminolewind]

Yea, I've never seen a chick not eat feathers. Then I get goslings and they gobble these big feathers down so fast!!!