Feather Pecking - HELP!

[Our Homestead]

I've read the other posts on feather pecking and here's my current situation:
I have 14 hens (Australorps, Orpingtons, Barred Rocks, Rhode Island Reds, Auracanas, Wyandottes) and 1 rooster (Light Brahma) - most have had feathers pecked on back and wings (some severely). The rooster is missing chest feathers.

My chickens are free range, get table scraps, and have free choice layer crumbles, cracked corn, and oyster shells. They are laying fairly well (9-13 eggs daily).

The pecking started this winter when they were cooped up, but has continued & now they are starting to sunburn.

Last night DH and I coated everyone's back and the rooster's chest in pine tar. Now they all seem to be pecking at themselves! I'm considering making duct tape saddles, but now they're all covered in pine tar and I'm not sure it will stick.

Any ideas or comments?

Thanks!!!

 

[CampineBuddy]

Hi I have had the same problem earlier this year but it has stopped for me.
but someone told me to try putting news paper in there coops, so let me know if it helps.


-Carmen-