Feather Damage

[Welsy]

Hi guys, sorry - don't know where to put this post,
A couple of my hens have been experiencing some of these common symptoms of feather damage. It almost looks like some wings feathers have been cut, I definitely haven't and I have had them for 3 years now. Also, the feathers look unkept, split and generally unhealthy. Thoughts? Mites or Lice? Protein deficiency? I have even read that it may be mice damage??? Please let me know what I can do. TIA

 

[cavemanrich]

I am really puzzled here since never experienced such. Mites and lice can be visible on your chickens if you inspect them closely. I am thinking possible low protein intake. Many peeps will assume that the feed that they give is is formulated properly and should be sufficient. Lets take 18% Alflock or also Grower at same percentage. That should be sufficient in most cases. 16% layer is very common and widely used also. (bottom of protein needs percentage) Now you add treats and scratch and other things that are lower in protein. (reason not to overdo with treats. I have a hard time with this one myself)
Resulting protein intake drops below the desired level. Scratch and other grains like cracked corn are probably in the 7% protein range. This all dilutes the protein percentage in the total chickens intake. You can overcome this by supplementing with dry cat food in small quantities which is in the middle 20's% range. I don't have the bag in front of me to check at the moment. You can also give table scrap meat to your chickens (I do, but always give cooked) Some peeps give raw. I see things differently.
WISHING YOU BEST.... SINCE YOU JOINED RECENTLY

 

[aart]

Is it only 2 of the birds?
If only 2, it's not likely to be diet.
What breed(s) are the ones with funky feathers?
You've had them for 3 years...since they were chicks?
When's the last time these birds molted?
Some birds just have better feathers than others.

Knowing more about:
your location(please put it in your profile)
your flock size(numbers, ages, genders),
your coop(size in feet by feet with pics),
and what and how exactly you are feeding,
might offer clues to if there is a solvable problem.

Sorry for all the questions, but more info will get you better suggestions/solutions.

 

[Sharwig]

Welsy, did your chickens feathers ever improve? I’m experiencing the same thing with one of my chickens. I gave her a good look over tonight. No lice or mites.