feather eating chicken

[6512andgrowing]

One of my hens, who hasn't layed in 2 weeks, is plucking and eating feathers off my other hens.
Anyone know anything about this strange behavior?

http:6512andgrowing.wordpress.com/

 

[natalie1136]

Maybe she needs protein. Give her some dry cat food or something else high in protein.

 

[hen-thusiast]

Sometimes they do it out of boredom or stress. Do they have enough room? It could be a protein deficiency.

Some people suggest hanging a head of cabbage or broccoli to relieve boredom.

 

[Carol.in.WV]

I noticed my baby chicks eating feathers that had fallen out while they were still in the brooder and they still eat feathers. At first it worried me, but now I figure it must meet some sort of need. I throw out the egg shells for them to eat also. I have not seen anyone pulling feathers out and eating them, and hope they are not doing that. Mine are free range so I don't think it is boredom.......I would like to know why.