Feather Picking

[NannyKin]

Hi,

This year about may 5th I got some Nankins, I was very excited because I was waiting for them for about 5 months. As chicks I put them in with 3 of my older Mille Fleurs and they where doing great, but as they got older around their back area was just pin feathers. I thought that was quite strange and then I talked to the nankin breeder and she had the exact same problem, and so did another lady. They are approximately 3 months now and I separated the about 4 weeks ago
and their tail feathers are growing in quite slowly, and I was wondering if there is anyway possible to speed up this process as these are show birds and missing tail feathers don't look to great.

Thanks.

 

[ChickenCanoe]

High protein feed will help feathers (which are 93% protein) grow.
Normally show birds get a higher protein feed and vitamin supplements anyway.
At a minimum I'd give a grower or game bird feed till their feathers come in.
Meat and fish scraps or tuna treats can help.
As omnivores, animal protein does wonders for chickens.

 

[NannyKin]

Thank you,

I will definitely try the fish treats.