Eating Feathers?

[BiggJohnn]

I was in the coop the other day & I noticed that one of my hens swallowed a feather whole & quick!! So quick I wasn’t 100% sure that I had seen it. Is that normal? I also noticed that there’s no feathers in the coop. Only 1, the Big turkey feather. Would she eat the feathers? Do they?

 

[JaeG]

If they are lacking in protein they will look for it in other places and feathers are pretty much 100% protein. What percentage protein is your feed?

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Chickens do eat feathers. It can be a sign of a protein deficiency. Feeding a higher protein ration and limiting lower protein extras will help to keep them from getting deficient. Many higher production hens are prone to it.

 

[BiggJohnn]

I believe it’s 15%, i ferment their feed and feed sunflower seed fodder. Ive been looking for a higher protein feed but I’ve only found like 16% or get flockraiser for Turkey’s & pheasant. Any idea what’s up with this egg?

 

[JaeG]

Heavy breeds often require 18-20% protein feed. If you feed a high protein gamebird feed the extras you give them, such as fodder and treats, don't lower the protein amount past the point where they are becoming deficient. Sprouted alfalfa is a good protein source too.

You did get a pretty, painted egg! You will get the odd one now and then. Sometimes they hang around a bit long in the pipework and get some added extras. Sometimes they whip through too fast. Unless it's happening a lot odd eggs are nothing to worry about.

 

[3riverschick]

What breeds of chicken do you have?
Karen

 

[BiggJohnn]

I have a few jersey giants, Buff Orp, Black Sumatra’s, a few leghorn mix’s. We ordered the brown egg layer assortment.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

I believe it’s 15%, i ferment their feed and feed sunflower seed fodder. Ive been looking for a higher protein feed but I’ve only found like 16% or get flockraiser for Turkey’s & pheasant. Any idea what’s up with this egg?

15% is too low. Daily requirements is 16%. I suggest feeding an All Flock type ration or a non medicated grower starter with 18-22% protein. Calcium needs can be met with a separate bowl of oyster shells free choice.

The egg looks like it has some raised calcium deposits, along with a glitch in the pigment application.

 

[BiggJohnn]

Ok cool, I’ll try to find a higher protein feed for them. Thank you all for the help.!

 

[aart]

Higher protein feed might help, but when I see feather eating I up the animal protein...mealworms, meat scraps...some folks use canned fish, cat or dog food..all in moderation.