How long for feathers to grow back

[YorkieGirl100]

We had a problem with pecking recently which we've finally managed to solve using a combination of separation and bumpa bits. However, two of the hens (we've got four altogether) have been left with big areas of feathers missing. I haven't seen any pecking for a few weeks but the feathers aren't growing back. Does it take time - or could they be gone for good? Or maybe, the pecking is still going on but I'm missing it?

Can anyone advise - many thanks!

 

[rascal66]

Maybe post some pics. I hear that feathers can take weeks to grow back, but google can confirm. Problem is, we don't know if the peckers completely pulled out the feather or just broke it. If they are broken, don't expect them to grow back until their next molt... Never usually gone for good. Just keep an eye and you will be able to see.

I have a rough rooster so some of my hens backs are full of broken feathers, which makes them not look so pretty. Unfortunately the deed was done and now I'm just going to have to wait for their next molt.

 

[YorkieGirl100]

Thanks! I will try upload a pic.

 

[happyhens1972]

Some may grow back in weeks, some may not come back until they molt, but assuming the pecking has actually stopped, they will come back eventually, Upping protein content in the diet will help, especially if the hens are heavy layers....feather production takes a lot of protein, as does egg production so if more is available, it will help the process along. Mealworms are a favourite!

 

[Fairview01]

Paint the bare area with pine tar. It will soothe the exposed skin, give great protection from fly bites and will stop any further pecking.

The downside is that pine tar is sticky. It will collect all manner of dirt and dust. They will be dirty birds for a bit but it helps protect them.

 

[Shadrach]

Hello YorkieGirl100.
Welcome to BYC.
It can take a new moult for feathers to regrow. However, feather growing is a constant process and if the patches are still completely bare it may well be those areas are still being picked at.
The suggestion from @Fairview01 is how I might go about ensuring that any pecking stops. If you are unsure regarding Pine Tar here is an article that may help.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/ar...s-and-injuries-with-stockholm-hoof-tar.74400/
Heavy feather pecking is often a sign of other problems; insuficient protein in their diet can be the cause (what do you feed them?), overcrowding and boredom could be another.
A picture of your coop and run might help to assess if this is the cause.

 

[Fairview01]

Hello YorkieGirl100.
Welcome to BYC.
It can take a new moult for feathers to regrow. However, feather growing is a constant process and if the patches are still completely bare it may well be those areas are still being picked at.
The suggestion from @Fairview01 is how I might go about ensuring that any pecking stops. If you are unsure regarding Pine Tar here is an article that may help.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/ar...s-and-injuries-with-stockholm-hoof-tar.74400/
Heavy feather pecking is often a sign of other problems; insuficient protein in their diet can be the cause (what do you feed them?), overcrowding and boredom could be another.
A picture of your coop and run might help to assess if this is the cause.

Insufficient protein as mentioned above and a calcium deficiency.

 

[YorkieGirl100]

Thanks all. I feed layers pellets. Plus meal worms and a handful of corn daily as a treat. Greens too. I will keep an eye on them - hopefully the next moult will sort things. Thanks for all the suggestions.