Do my hens need aprons?

[Attila the Hen]

Four out of five of my hens are losing their feathers on their backs from the rooster mounting them. They don't seem to be uncomfortable and it is warm enough out. Should I get aprons for them?
thanks

 

[artsyrobin]

i do when that happens, because i don't want anyone to start feather picking-

 

[Judy]

I've used them a couple of times because I was afraid the next step would be cut skin, without the feathers to protect them. I don't think they are that warm, not as warm as the down and feathers they lost, I wouldn't think.

 

[Attila the Hen]

Thanks for the responses. I wonder if I need more girls for the rooster. He doesn't seem overly amorous as far as I can tell although I must say he's not much of a gentleman. He chases them around and they basically put up with him. Otherwise he is a wonderful rooster--very attentive finding tidbits and protective. I am very attached to him and wouldn't want to give him up. I just hate seeing the girls lose their feathers because he is developing his spurs.

 

[artsyrobin]

if he is young, he will settle down eventually- if you can, i'd add a few more hens- i had to do that and it does help- less stress on the hens- also, remember the spurs are for defense of him and his ladies, and its best to let them keep the spurs if possible