how much to cut on Polish Hen

[Sugar Sand Farm]

I have a black polish hen with a very large top knot. I have tried to trim it several times but she still can't see Just how much can I take off without hurting her. I have cut down until the white is showing I am afraid to cut any closer. Anybody ever cut their hair short?

 

[seminolewind]

I just trim above the eyes, anything that blocks what they see. I don't think they're blood feathers, so I think you can trim them short.

 

[debilorrah]

Oh my - what are blood feathers??

 

[Blisschick]

Blood feathers are new ones coming in, where the shaft is still growing. You've seen before where a chicken has had a growing tail feather picked or something and it's bleeding? The quick is still supplying the feather blood and nutrients while it's growing, so if it get's pecked or cut, it will bleed. Mature feathers that have stopped growing will be hard.

 

[seminolewind]

Quote:
Bliss, I didn't know that they all would bleed till they are fully mature. Thanks

 

[Blisschick]

As they grow out, the tips will be hard, but the base of the feather will still be fleshy inside the quill. It's okay to cut the tips, but just be careful about not clipping it against the skin, or it will bleed.