Hens backs are bare!!!

[DonnaBelle]

Does anyone have an idea to keep, I guess the rooster, from pecking out the feathers on the hens backs? I haven't actually seen him do it, but I assume he is the culprit. The bare areas are just above the hen's tail feathers on their backs. Not all of them have the problem.

Short of smacking his jaws, anything I can do to stop him?

DonnaBelle

 

[gritsar]

I doubt he's pecking them. More likely he's ripping their feathers out with his feet when he mates them. Make sure his nails are short, his spurs trimmed and then purchase or sew your hens some saddles. That way the roo can get the job done without tearing up the hens backs.