Loosing Feathers

[RisingSun]

One of my hens has always had a 'bare' spot around her bottom, but recently some of my other hens have been loosing their feathers around their bums too...
Anyone know why this might be happening?
Thanks so much,
Denise

 

[Judy]

Usually this is from others pulling and eating feathers. The two most common causes are too little protein in the diet and too little space / boredom. You should also check them for lice / mites.

From our FAQ page:

My chickens are pecking/eating each other's feathers:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=34705
https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=31291
https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=36139
https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=30486

Also

http://ohioline.osu.edu/vme-fact/0018.html