/ Register

  1. If this is your first time on BYC, we suggest you start with one of these three options:
    Raising Chickens Chicken Coops Join BYC
    Not a member yet? join BYC here & then introduce yourself in our community forum here.

Hens picking out each other's feathers

Discussion in 'Chicken Behaviors and Egglaying' started by eam, Jun 9, 2008.

Most Liked Posts
  1. Jun 9, 2008 #1
    eam

    eam In the Brooder

    15
    0
    22
    Apr 28, 2008
    Rockport, MA
    Hi,

    I'm about to acquire 8 hens, just about a year old, whose owner says the girls are 'plucking' each other. I don't know alot about the situation - e.g. what their diet is, what the coop / ranging setup is.

    I realize if their diet is off, it might cause unhealthy behaviors, or if they don't have enough space they might start picking at each other. There is no rooster involved.

    Our girls only look ragged typcally for two reasons: molting and the roosters' favorite girls.

    What other causes might there be?

    Thanks for all your help!
    Elizabeth
     
  2. Jun 9, 2008 #2
    SpottedCrow

    SpottedCrow Flock Goddess

    6,952
    9
    261
    Jan 12, 2007
    Weymouth, Massachusetts
    Being cooped up all day can cause stress which can cause picking.
    If they're eating the feathers too, then there's a deficiency too...
     

BackYard Chickens is proudly sponsored by: