Molting & bleeding

[Happychickens33]

Our wonderful Leghorn Marshmallow has begun to molt. Most of the others have molted already including the Roos who have gotten new tails, in our relatively young flock. I saw Marshmallow shake and quite a few feathers flew in every direction. It was this evening, when I noticed streaks of blood down her breast. She wasn’t actively bleeding- looked like dried blood. I was thinking blood feathers? Other hens pecking at her especially the Marans? It is quiet cold out 32 in Nov in TN. Unusual. I’m thinking of separating her and putting her in a comfortable small coup that I put broody hens in when they’re hatching eggs. Any thoughts? I’ll try to get a photo tomorrow. Her behavior is normal.

 

[Eggcessive]

They usually do better in the flock with their friends. Of course you don’t want her getting bullied and feather picked. I would spend some time with them tomorrow, and find out what is happening. Look closer for any injuries, but blood feathers will blled, and some may have to be pulled out with pliers if they continue to bleed. Blood will attract more pecking. Some use BluKote to color the red blue, but that might not look so good for awhile on a white chicken.

If she needs separating, I would try to do it inside a wire dog crate with food and water, but staying in the coop.

 

[Happychickens33]

They usually do better in the flock with their friends. Of course you don’t want her getting bullied and feather picked. I would spend some time with them tomorrow, and find out what is happening. Look closer for any injuries, but blood feathers will blled, and some may have to be pulled out with pliers if they continue to bleed. Blood will attract more pecking. Some use BluKote to color the red blue, but that might not look so good for awhile on a white chicken.

If she needs separating, I would try to do it inside a wire dog crate with food and water, but staying in the coop.

They all free range during the day and she is a bit of a loner, mostly cause she is so curious and into everything and following us around! She almost went to town in the truck once! Your suggestions sound good, thank you!!