hens pecking at feathers laying on ground.

[bucky52]

I have read on byc that its a sign that they need more protein in their diet.

I have 10 hens and they vary in age
some have just finished up their molt
I took them off layer .and started them on flock raiser which has 20% protein
they have almost finished up a 50lb bag
I give them a cup of freeze dried meal worms once Aday.
and I cook up some eggs at least once a week.
I have read I can give them cat food in moderation.
I checked the chick starter and that has 24% protein.
Would it be wise to give them the chick starter
or could any one suggest something else.
thanks.

 

[Den in Penn]

I would not worry about them picking up the feathers that are already on the ground. They are always looking for things to eat and loose feathers are one of the things they will eat. If fact it is a normal thing for them to do. It is when they pluck other chickens that the problems start. With a cup meal worms for ten hens and 20% feed, I would think that is plenty of protein. If they are plucking feathers then there may be another problem other then protein deficiency. Being confined during the winter can cause things like boredom to rear its head.

 

[bucky52]

ok thanks.their run is somewhat of a maze and it is30x30.hopefully thay won't get to bored.