Losing feathers??

[FlaChickenMan]

I have a Domineque (Barred Rock)hen (4 months old) that I find lots(5 or 6) of feathers(some small, some wing sized) in her cage in the morning or evening. She seems to be always cleaning herself, could it be that? Also I use DE in the pen, no mites on legs, beak or butt. Other than that she is fine. Any ideas, or is it just a phase?

 

[HorseFeathers]

Molting? Feathers growing in CAN'T be comfortable, she's probably preening because of that. Is she sort of patchwork, like this?

 

[HorseFeathers]

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And just for future reference: Dominique and Barred Rock are two different breeds. The hen above is a Barred Rock. If she has a rose comb, she a Dominique, if she has a single, she's a BR.

 

[jprinc44]

Looks like my Dominiques....Mine have a similar problem with he feathers falling out, but I think their timing is off and they are moulting, plus my roos get quite carried away sometimes, and do damage to the girls' backs.

 

[HorseFeathers]

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If you are referring to my photo (sorry for any confusion, NOT the OP's!) then you, my friend, have Barred Rocks.

 

[katrinag]

Have you checked for mites/lice too. Just to be safe.

 

[HorseFeathers]

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Yes, he checked for mites and lice, nothing. I believe it is just a molt.

 

[katrinag]

Ok I was just making sure.