eating feathers

[galvinkr22]

My flock and my neighbors flock seem to love eating feathers. I have seen them gobble up an entire wing feather. Is there something they lack?

 

[al6517]

They do this sometimes if their body's crave more protein.

AL

 

[kristen2678]

Feather eating can be do to a lack of protein. Which type of feed are they on? Try adding some black oil sunflower seeds for extra protein. Scrambled egg would work too.

 

[Judy]

It is probably usually for the protein but can also be related to too little space and/or boredom.


Here is a good thread on the subject:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=34705

 

[A.T. Hagan]

Could be protein or more specific amino acid deficiency. Could be boredom. Could be a salt deficiency.

.....Alan.

 

[ella]

It's perfectly normal for them to pick up and eat feathers from the ground.

If they're picking them off each other that's another story. And eating a primary feather?

Wow, ouch!