feather pulling by another hen?

[laura2002]

Hi,
We're brand new to raising chickens, never thought I could totally fall in love with them, but we all are! We have raised our 8 hens from a couple of days old to now 3 months old and they have all done great, up until now. While feeding them today, I saw that one of the girls is missing feathers (and a good deal of them) under her wing. I'm thinking that another one of the girls is pulling them out? What should I do? They all seem healthy, other than that. Very social and active, so I don't think she's sick and being picked on. Any help would be greatly appreciated!!!
Thanks!!
Laura

 

[DeannaOR]

Have you picked up and looked under all the girls wings? or did you happen to see this while she flapped or something?

 

[CMV]

The feathers are thin under the wings. Are you sure you aren't seeing her normal feathering pattern? Under the wings is not a normal place for feather picking to occur.

 

[laura2002]

Hi Deanna,

I actually saw it while she was walking away from me, so it's not directly under her wing, but a little to the side. We're wondering if they need a larger run...this one is a bit small (10x4), it's a temporary run until their larger is completed, but maybe they are frustrated by the size? I'm completely pulling at straws here, we just don't know what to think!

Laura

 

[DeannaOR]

Well...I can't see what you see, but I would say go pick up each one and pull their wings out and look underneath. I know my youngsters have bare spots under their wings, close to the body. It's normal. I'll go take a picture and post it...then you can see if it's what you saw.

 

[DeannaOR]

Like this? or much more?

 

[laura2002]

Deanna, you're so sweet, thank you! It's more than that and very red....it's dark here now and they've all tucked themselves in for the night, but I can try and post a picture tomorrow....maybe that would help with ideas! Have a great night!!!

Laura

 

[DeannaOR]

No problem =) That would make it easier for people to help.

 

[TallChickMagnet]

Hi everyone, just posting so that I can follow...