Eating Its Own Feathers

[californiachicks]

Three times now we've noticed our 5 week old Buff running around the coop trying to eat her own feather while the other three chicks chase her. We don't know whether to laugh or cry...Why would she eat her own feather? Is that safe? How is she getting her feathers? The others go absolutely bonkers trying to get it from her.

 

[dawg53]

Eating feathers could be a sign of lack of sufficient protein in the diet. I recommend that you go ahead and start your birds on layer feed if you havnt already done so. If you've started them on layer feed, purchase gamebird feed and add some to the layer feed. Gamebird feed is higher in protein than layer feed. Hopefully the extra protein will stop the feather eating.

 

[chickenarmy]

I agree. My chicks used to do this.

And I do have to admit that it's pretty funny.
And yes gamebird feed would be a good idea.

 

[californiachicks]

I'd think that since they're only 5 weeks old, I should start them on grower feed next....???

 

[2greenboyz]

Californiachicks, this is my take on it - are they actually eating the feather or just playing "keep away". Birds tend to be jealous if they think another has something valuable - even if it isn't. They will chase each other and steal from each other - it's hilarious. They do go through molts before they reach pullet stage. If it seems that they are actually eating the feather or plucking each other, then yes, additional protein may be in order. You can do this in several ways - safest may be giving a scrambled egg, or a tiny bit of soaked cat food. I have organic kitty food (dry) in case I need to up their protein (got the idea on this forum). Or, the game bird crumble or grower feed- good idea - like you said. I'd be careful with layer at this stage b/c of the added calcium. But my opinion, at their age, I think its all part of the games kids play. Observe them and find out what they're up to. And don't forget to take a movie - they're only young once!

 

[dawg53]

I'd think that since they're only 5 weeks old, I should start them on grower feed next....???

I'm sorry, ...dont switch them to layer feed. I dont know what the heck I was thinking when I said that lol. If they were around 20 weeks, by all means try the gamebird feed, otherwise take 2greenboyz advice. The scrambled egg would be best.

 

[californiachicks]

Thank you for the replies!