Feather picking

[katieuppi]

I have one chicken that allows the other 3 to pluck out the feathers on her rear end. I'm pretty sure it happens when she is sitting up on a roost. It started when the weather got bad and they were spending most of their time in the henhouse. She's second in command and no one picks on anyone else. What can I do? I feel bad for her in this cold weather. I'm thinking of repositioning the roosts higher and farther apart. Any other ideas?

 

[thudson]

I have one chicken that allows the other 3 to pluck out the feathers on her rear end. I'm pretty sure it happens when she is sitting up on a roost. It started when the weather got bad and they were spending most of their time in the henhouse. She's second in command and no one picks on anyone else. What can I do? I feel bad for her in this cold weather. I'm thinking of repositioning the roosts higher and farther apart. Any other ideas?View attachment 1273867

I have learned always to follow my instincts and here you should. I would definitely move them farther apart. That should do the trick.

 

[ChickNanny13]

What is the dimensions of their henhouse? What are you feeding your chickens?
Feather plucking can be boredom or needing more protein. Sounding like boredom at this point. I've heard where some hang a head of cabbage, put out chicken blocks/toys ...

 

[katieuppi]

I have learned always to follow my instincts and here you should. I would definitely move them farther apart. That should do the trick.

Thanks so much!

 

[katieuppi]

What is the dimensions of their henhouse? What are you feeding your chickens?
Feather plucking can be boredom or needing more protein. Sounding like boredom at this point. I've heard where some hang a head of cabbage, put out chicken blocks/toys ...

My henhouse is 7x8 and the run is 10x14. I have 4 girls under 1 year. I was feeding 16% plus some black soldier fly larvae, but I got 17% last time. I was thinking protein might also be an issue. Considering using 19%...

 

[thudson]

What is the dimensions of their henhouse? What are you feeding your chickens?
Feather plucking can be boredom or needing more protein. Sounding like boredom at this point. I've heard where some hang a head of cabbage, put out chicken blocks/toys ...

I recently did this myself. I hung a head of cabbage in all 3 of my coops. It is a fantastic treat and boredom buster for your flock.