Do you think this feather loss is from over mating?

[MysteryChik]

I get some favorite hens who end up bare backed from a rooster. I have never seen any other damage beyond missing feathers and I personally wouldn't use a hen saddle unless the skin was being damaged due to hen saddles coming with their own troubles.

Mites and lice can get out of control under them because hens can't properly dust bath with them on. They also can be too hot during the summer and can chafe and be irritating to the bird. They do require regular checking to make sure there's not problem going on underneath them.

So shen you say damage to skin, i'm assuming you mean bleeding or something? I'm going to pick these chickens up tomorrow morning, and as long as it is just rooster tread I will still purchase her. I've just never had this kind of problem before so I am so unsure. The feather's grow back but not until after molting, is that right?

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Yes I do mean scratches or wounds, and yes they usually stay bare backed until the molt because the feathers are usually broke off. If they are pulled out they may grow back. If you don't have a rooster she will be fine. A spray of bluekote can disguise the skin color if you want, refresh as necessary.

Roosters favor hens that are in peak production, as well as those that aren't as high in the pecking order. With her comb color and size she is in peak egg laying condition, and looks overall healthy in the photo, though quarantine is always recommended.

 

[donrae]

I suggested it because I know some folks use them, but I never have personally. So sorry, but that's all I got