Help My Ugly Buff

[borobobby]

A few weeks ago our Buff Orpington starting losing feathers here at her breast only. It's gross and ugly but we have no idea why. None of the other birds in the flock have the "mange" looking issue. Any thoughts on what this is and how we should treat her?

 

[dawg53]

Sometimes birds will pull breast feathers if they go broody.
Another reason is caused by blisters on the breast, which could possibly mean mycoplasma synoviae (MS.) However, you would see other noticable symptoms for sure.
It also could be a lack of enough protein in her diet, especially if she's eating the feathers. It's possible that she could be lowest on the pecking order and not eating enough. Gamebird feed which is higher in protein would help if this is the case.