Feathers in the run! Feather plucking!

[Adula62]

Hi everyone,

My pullets are currently 16 weeks and 20 weeks old. I have noticed feathers around the run and coop when I clean. None of the chickens are injured and they are eating and drinking as they should (crushed feed pellets at 20% protein, fresh veggies, scratch, and dried bugs). Today, I witnessed a couple hens pecking at other hens feathers, plucking them out, and eating them. It wasn’t any particular bird picking on another, it was more at random and when the chickens were lying down or dust bathing. What could I do to help prevent this. I can’t think of another cause for the loose feathers in the run and coop.

Note: (pictured below) I have 16 chickens and a 22X8 foot run and 6x8 coop. They do not currently free range (our fenced in free range area is not currently complete).

thank you in advance, any help is appreciated!
,Alyssa Dula

 

[STACEYH]

I would boost their protein to 22%.

 

[aart]

(crushed feed pellets at 20% protein, fresh veggies, scratch, and dried bugs)

I'd cut out the veggies and scratch.
Maybe add more animal protein once a week(unsalted canned fish works well)

They may be finishing up their last juvenile molt.
Random pecking of feathers is pretty normal.