Hen picked, molting or something else?

[monaandthechicks]

We were away on vacation and I came back and noticed lots of small feathers in the nesting box. Then I noticed one of my RIR's had a bare bottom.

all 4 hens are 9 months.

I looked and have not seen any bugs, her diet is layer pellets, she has some oyster shell mixed in, an occasional scoop of scratch thrown down and other wise veggie and bread scraps. I have not seen any of the other girls picking on each other, but I certainly do hear some big squawking from the hen house occasionally. I just started to let them free range this week (after I saw her butt) thinking maybe they are bored, stuck in their run staring with dreamy eyes at the grass and garden.

any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Imp]

Sounds like you've got it covered.

Imp

 

[monaandthechicks]

Thanks Imp, do you mean by keeping them occupied??

 

[Imp]

I looked and have not seen any bugs, her diet is layer pellets, she has some oyster shell mixed in, an occasional scoop of scratch thrown down and other wise veggie and bread scraps. I have not seen any of the other girls picking on each other, but I certainly do hear some big squawking from the hen house occasionally. I just started to let them free range this week (after I saw her butt) thinking maybe they are bored, stuck in their run staring with dreamy eyes at the grass and garden.

You've checked for bugs, and have watched for pecking. You're feeding them well, and it doesn't look like serious wounds. Could be just a mini molt. More space and activity is always a good thing. You chickens look great. I'll attach a link about feather loss.

http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/library/lvstk2/mf2308.pdf

Imp​

 

[monaandthechicks]

THANK YOU!!!

I appreciate your taking the time!