Itchy birds.

[Nyna]

Hi guys! I was wondering if it is normal that chickens scratch themselves all the time? It seems like they do it a lot. They mainly just kind of peck around their butt area and under their wings. I put DE in their coup and their dusting bathers, but I guess I'm not sure if it's working or if their getting enough. There is no major sign of mites or anything, but they are kind of skittish and wont let me get real close to inspect them. Hopefully it is normal? I know my dog scratches herself and she doesn't have fleas?

 

[silkiechicken]

Well maybe what you are seeing is them preening themselves. They will "pick" at their feathers one by one to straighten them up and oil them.

 

[WoodlandWoman]

When they're molting and have new feathers growing in, they also act itchy and preen alot.