Chicks with bloody wing tips with mama hen

[KCward]

My hen hatched out 9 chicks 5 days ago and they all seem to be doing well. The first day I noticed she would peck at them, but I realized she was just trying to get them to go under her and she was fine after that. But today I noticed she does this a lot, even when they are trying to eat. I picked up a couple a minute ago and realized several of them have bloody wing tips. It is dried blood now, but I’d say at least half of them have this. I would hate to separate the chicks because the mom is trying her hardest to be a good mom. She is constantly trying to find them food and protecting them. I have not seen any other flock members bother them. She keeps them away and the rest free range so they have plenty of space. I’m guessing this has to be mom doing this? What would be the best thing to do here? This is my first time having chicks with their mom so I’m new to this. Thanks

 

[CherishedFowlGuardian]

@Eggcessive

 

[CherishedFowlGuardian]

Carefully clean the chicks’ wings when needed, treat minor wounds with Vetericyn to protect them and reduce visible blood, maintain clean bedding, and monitor to ensure the hen isn’t hurting them repeatedly.

 

[CherishedFowlGuardian]

Could you also send pictures?

 

[KCward]

Could you also send pictures?

I looked them over and it seems to be only on 2-3 chicks.

 

[BlindLemonChicken]

What are you feeding her? I wonder if she is pecking their fluff to eat it because she’s low on protein after brooding

 

[KCward]

What are you feeding her? I wonder if she is pecking their fluff to eat it because she’s low on protein after brooding

She is getting chick feed with the chicks. Should I change it or add more protein?

 

[BlindLemonChicken]

The chick feed should be good. Wait for more experienced thoughts-I’ve never had a broody do this so I’m as befuddled as you.

 

[Penpal]

Chickens always peck at red. This is why feed and water dishes for chickens are usually red. If a chick got a boo boo that drew blood, it would be naturally for the other chickens to peck at it. If you have to, place a little strip of white tape over the red spots.

 

[Eggcessive]

BluKote spray, applied to a QTip since it dyes everything blue/purple, might be good to put in the bloody areas. They usually will be dark the next day. Use your judgement whether or not to separate them.