Mixed flock question

[embkm]

I have a question for people who have chicken flocks mixed with other types of birds. I admit I didn't do any research before I bought my older flock. I originally didn't want a roo, but my then 4yo liked him... so into the travel pen he went. I definitely didn't want a guinea, but same thing... DD looks at me with those sweet little eyes "Mommy PLEASE let me have the guinea pig" (It took her 2 months to jsut call it a guinea). The guy I bought them from says they are no extra trouble and no, they didn't need to be with other guineas and yeah, sure they can stay in a pen with the chickens because I can't free range.

OK, fast forward to now... for the past month or so, the chickens in that pen have been losing feathers. It started around the head/neck area then tails and now vent/ belly area. At first I thought the roo was doing it in his effort to mate (he's a banty.. they are LF). THen I thought mites/lice /molt when I noticed his tail feathers aren't looking too great either. Now I am wondering if it's feather picking... and since all the birds in the pen are showing signs EXCEPT the guinea, could she be the culprit?

She is the only guinea I have, and I can't let her loose. Could she be the one causing the problem? What should I do about it? Find her a new home? Would she be happier with other guineas? THe guy I got them from said she was raised with these chickens since they were day olds.

 

[DawnSuiter]

I hope you get some guidance from someone who knows about guineas...

but I wondered after reading your post, if the chickens are moulting and the guinea is not...

feathers are starting to fly wildly here.

 

[kenman]

I figure the molt. However, I know very little about guineas either. What I do know is the chickens, geese, and older ducks are making it like an early snow (except some are red feathers) around here.

 

[embkm]

It will be a relief if it is molt. I ruled that out though because the egg production hasn't decreased. It's been a steady 5-6 eggs per day from 6 hens... even through the heat of the summer.

 

[DawnSuiter]

I'd think if they were bothered by picking/fighting or mites then the egg laying would slow down. hmmmmm

 

[embkm]

I think I am going to try adding more protein to their diet. I was told in the guinea section they need more protein than chickens.

Heck, it can't hurt to try right? And if it is molt, the extra protein will help the feathers grow back in.