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Feather picking

Discussion in 'Chicken Behaviors and Egglaying' started by Featherfool, Jul 22, 2008.

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  1. Jul 22, 2008 #1
    Featherfool

    Featherfool Hatching

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    Jul 22, 2008
    I am new to raising chickens and have an assortment of nearly three month old pullets which I've raised from day old chicks. We did have 13 broilers but we put them in the freezer a few weeks ago.

    I noticed the other day that one chicken in particular seems to be getting picked on. She's missing most of the feathers from her tail and it looks raw and sore. I've noticed one of the other chickens seems to be missing a lot of her tail feathers as well. Watching the behavior of the other coop-mates, I can't really figure out who the culprit is, they all seem to be joining in!

    They have a nice large coop so there's plenty of room for everyone. They have ample access to food and water, the temperature is as comfortable as I'm able to make it. I "was" leaving a light on in the coop 24-7 but since reading this may encourage unwelcome behavior it's been lights out. I've also started throwing their feed on the floor and putting out vegetable scraps hoping that this will keep them occupied and deter the feather picking.

    What else should I do?!?
     

  4. Jul 30, 2008 #2
    chicken quartet

    chicken quartet In the Brooder

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    Jun 12, 2008
    Corona, CA
    I don't have an answer for you, but I have the same problem. I have nine 2 week old chicks that are all pecking the tail feathers of 2 of them. I can't figure out why either. I just separated the ones getting picked on. I hope you find an answer!
     

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