Hi! Okay so I think the feed is called IFA layers mash. I’m going to confirm with the local shop I get it from and ask if I should supplement protein in it more. I’ve been giving them scratch and sun flower seeds. I usually give them some meal worms here and there, some cabbage and lettuce, veg scraps, egg shells, etc. but maybe not enough?
I checked two of them for mites/lice. I didn’t see anything but will look tonight in the dark in case they are in the coop.
My father build the coop and I would say it might be a bit small. The bottom (length) is one sheet of plywood which I think is 32 sq ft? They really only go in there to sleep. Even in the cold they are barging the door to come out in the morning. I have a feeder, water, and some hay that I put down underneath the coop and it has a breathable layer around it to block the wind. There’s no food or water in the coop. It’s just two roosts and 5 nesting boxes. My dad made it so I won’t be the least offended if you think it’s not large/comprehensive enough. Any ideas on how to make it better let me know.
I was watching them a bit this morning and I noticed the top chicken lunge at them a bit or go towards their neck area if she’s annoyed but also saw them eating and drinking together mostly. I noticed she’s more ornery when they are in the coop. She will go at them a bit if they are looking for seeds in the shavings or trying to pick their roosting spot she does the same thing
I haven’t actually seen them eat any feathers or any of them plucking a feather out of another but will try to spend more time out there to investigate.
Appreciate all your help!