Chicks eating feathers shed by other chicks!

[lifetimechicklover]

I have 3.5 M/O OEGB and 2.5 M/O Seramas that are eating feathers they find in the runs that were previously occupied. Is there something missing in their diet? I recently changed from the 20% protein Starter to the 14% Grower & Finisher; both by Dumor. This was done on the advice of another member previously when I was having sickness problems with them. Has anyone had this problem, or is it NOT a problem?? Though they do not free range, I give them clumps of freshly dug grass on a regular basis....

 

[Lady of McCamley]

I stand aside for someone who is an expert with games, but I should think 14% protein is simply not enough for the game bird.

Feather eating is often a sign of low protein.

LofMc

 

[RodNTN]

I stand aside for someone who is an expert with games, but I should think 14% protein is simply not enough for the game bird.

Feather eating is often a sign of low protein.

LofMc

X2. I keep a few game birds and I always make sure they have extra protein

 

[Flamens Farm]

I agree I would put them back on the 20% protein feed.

 

[lifetimechicklover]

I stand aside for someone who is an expert with games, but I should think 14% protein is simply not enough for the game bird.

Feather eating is often a sign of low protein.

LofMc

Thanks! If I give them boiled eggs would that be a quick picker upper until I can get to the feed store?

 

[RodNTN]

Thanks! If I give them boiled eggs would that be a quick picker upper until I can get to the feed store?

Eggs contain a great deal of protein, so I would do that until you do get a feed with more protein

 

[Lady of McCamley]

Agree with @RodNTN

Put them back on 20% protein and feed eggs until you can do that. You don't want them to start pulling feathers out of each other or themselves.

LofMc

 

[chickens really]

Really that Grower is less in protein than a layer feed I'm a bit confused?..
Grower is usually about 16 to 17 percent...
I feed Grower and never layer feed I put oyster shell out in a separate bowl...

 

[centrarchid]

My immature birds consume even flight feathers at every opportunity, even when dietary protein levels are well above the minimum needed for maximum growth rate. Even the free-range birds getting their fill of insects do it.

 

[lifetimechicklover]

Agree with @RodNTN

Put them back on 20% protein and feed eggs until you can do that. You don't want them to start pulling feathers out of each other or themselves.

LofMc

Yes! I will certainly do that. Thank you.........