feather picking

[nhorrin]

I know this has been asked many times by many people, but I still have some questions. I have a flock of Chanteclers that are about 6 months old. I have 10 hens and one rooster. Things were going fine until this past week and I started noticing feathers here and there in the coop and the run. Most of the flock, including the rooster, are loosing some feathers on the back just before the tail feathers. Nothing has changed and I don't know what might be causing this to happen. Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks!

 

[azygous]

It's the time of year that most chickens go into molt and lose their feathers. That could be what's going on with yours.

Or you might have a feather-picking problem. Look for the one who has all her feathers. Then observe her behavior. Most feather pickers ramp up their activity late in the afternoon, so that would be the best time to catch them in the act if that's what's going on.

I started a thread on this topic and I believe I have found a cure. You may wish to check it out. https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/697052/i-think-i-found-a-miracle-cure-for-feather-picking