Gander Molting - Missing Feathers

[3xhhheather]

Okay, so I was going to post to just double check that this sort of patch on my gander is normal during breeding season. I saw a few threads where people kind of confirmed similar situations (no pictures available). But then my dude went for a swim and when he got out this huge patch is clearly gone! It was not like this this morning and I've been checking him (and all the birds) for mites/lice ever since he started losing chest feathers, but I've never found any.

I've seen my goose nip him in a similar spot when he's trying to mate and she's not having it, I'm wondering if she ripped this chunk out? I got a close look and I can see new tips coming in, but dang this looks bad right?

First pic - totally dry, Second pic - right after a swim

 

[Goosebaby]

It’s normal for them to have that featherless patch with only down on their tummies, but not bald spots, he’s definitely had those ripped out.

 

[3xhhheather]

Yep, caught her in the act this morning attacking the same spot I think she's gotten territorial over one of the pools.

 

[Goosebaby]

Yep, caught her in the act this morning attacking the same spot I think she's gotten territorial over one of the pools.

Some women are spicy