Chikcs losing feathers and coop mates helping pull them out.

[amast13]

I have 16 chicks, roos and hens. They are all around 6 to 7 weeks old. The other day I noticed one that was seming to develop later than the others with blood on his neck, at first I thought he was injured but then I saw the other chicks picking feathers out of his/her neck. Now there are about 4 with the same scenario. Is this a normal or am I seeing some bullying?

Thanks

 

[Judy]

You are seeing a problem that needs addressing. If they are indoors, turn any heat lamp or light off. More space and more protein should help. If possible, get them outside, at least part of the time, where they can do their natural pecking and scratching. They will keep pecking at the bloody spots, and those need to be masked with BluKote, pine tar or some other anti-peck product. You may have to separate the injured ones for their own protection.

 

[feather and mountain man]

Yup I agree with ddawn that should take care of the problem. Good luck!