Feathers not growing back

[Nystrjjr]

Hi everyone,
One of my layers I am assuming was pecked by the other hens sometime ago. She has this patch of missing feathers on her chest that has really given no sign of ever growing back. It has been a good 8 months. Recently the area above it looked a little raw (no blood though

 

[Eggcessive]

Sometimes chickens may peck their own feathers, for instance if their crop is impacted, or if they are itching. Do you have any pictures? Some chickens will let other chickens “groom” them while just sitting lr standing. You may need to spend some time watching to see if you can find out what is happening. Bare spot from feather loss sometimes does not grow back until the next molt in the fall. Some use bad tasting ointments such Nustock Cream or pine tar to discourage pecking.

 

[lbgreenfield]

I second what @Eggcessive said about using Nustock cream. It worked for my one hen who was super slow to grow back feathers after she molted, the Nustock kept her skin protected and moisturized. You could also look into using a chicken saddle or protective apron to put on her to protect her skin (put the saddle where she is getting pecked).

 

[Nystrjjr]

Sometimes chickens may peck their own feathers, for instance if their crop is impacted, or if they are itching. Do you have any pictures? Some chickens will let other chickens “groom” them while just sitting lr standing. You may need to spend some time watching to see if you can find out what is happening. Bare spot from feather loss sometimes does not grow back until the next molt in the fall. Some use bad tasting ointments such Nustock Cream or pine tar to discourage pecking.

I added a picture ...thanks

 

[Eggcessive]

Does that area seem to stick out more than on the others? She might be rubbing it on the roost or on the ground if she sleeps there. Is the roost rough? On occasion, I have seen a chicken with a hernia there.

 

[Nystrjjr]

I have never noticed that it is rubbing on anything. It kind of sticks out a little more than one would think. It doesn't feel hard or anything.