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Feather eating

Discussion in 'Managing Your Flock' started by SuperLuke, Aug 13, 2014.

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  1. Aug 13, 2014 #1
    SuperLuke

    SuperLuke Chirping

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    Is it bad if a chicken eats the other chickens feathers? Like is it bad for there insides?
     
    Last edited: Aug 13, 2014
  2. Aug 13, 2014 #2
    TwoCrows

    TwoCrows Bird is the Word Staff Member Premium Member 7 Years

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    Hello there and welcome to BYC! [​IMG]

    While feathers contain 85% protein, they are not really digestible. If a bird is in need of a lot of protein, such as during molting, they will eat feathers. It won't kill them, but it is really not good for them. Try to keep the feathers picked up around the coop and run and give them more protein. You can add some cooked ground turkey or beef a couple times a week and this should help to curb the feather eating.

    Eating feathers can also become a habit. So do your best to stop this feather eating.

    Welcome to our flock!
     
    1 person likes this.
  3. Aug 13, 2014 #3
    Michael OShay

    Michael OShay Crowing

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    Welcome to BYC! Glad you decided to join our flock. X2 on TwoCrows advice. Please feel free to ask any other questions you may have. We are here to help in any way we can. What kind of chickens do you have?
     
  4. Aug 13, 2014 #4
    Mountain Peeps

    Mountain Peeps Change is inevitable, like the seasons Premium Member

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    Welcome to BYC! Please make yourself at home and we are here to help.

    X3 chickens who are eating feathers usually are lacking protein. Feed them meat scrapes, mealworms, oatmeal, quinoa or eggs. Eating feathers is not a good thing as it can cause crop problems so deal with this soon.
     
    Last edited: Aug 13, 2014

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