Molting, maybe?

[krowl]

I don't like dust at all... because every time they shake out it goes far and wide into the air for me to breath. It's also a tad harder to apply.

I prefer a permethrin based spray... it comes under different brand names and ready to use like my picture or concentrated and mix down to the correct level. Usually found in the equine section, but avoid ones with other "active ingredients" if you decide to try these. Just a SMALL spritz below the vent, under each wing pit and to the nape of the neck... with feathers parted so it hits the skin. Soaking is not required.

That being said... you should NOT use ANYTHING monthly with no sign of need... as that is how resistance is built. Treat ONLY when you SEE the need, follow up as directed according to instructions... usually 10 ish days later... often twice but occasionally you may need to do a third treatment. But after that, don't treat again unless needed... as it isn't beneficial to your pocket book, the birds, or the environment. Continue to do your monthly inspections with the flash light though. Pleas note that the spray is just my preference and there is no problem with dust if that's what you like.

One last thought... the feather quality will not improve once it is damaged... until they molt and grow new ones. So maybe not until next year for her.

This is great feedback, Thank you!!!

 

[aart]

I don't like dust at all... because every time they shake out it goes far and wide into the air for me to breath. It's also a tad harder to apply.

Agrees, but in winter here it's not good to wet a chickens skin.

@krowl ....
Where in this world are you located?
Climate, and time of year, is almost always a factor.
Please add your general geographical location to your profile.
It's easy to do, (laptop version shown), then it's always there!

 

[krowl]

Doesn't look like molt to me... but yes I see it.

More like over preening. Since you don't have a rooster to cause this type of damage from mating... be sure and check for parasites as instructed above. Look for angry red skin near the vent or dried "mud" looking clumps near the feather bases.

Also, the other ladies' feathers look pretty perfect... watch for pecking order influence. Rock are always at the top of my pecking order.

Update-i think Ive decided my girl has a case of Northern Fowl Mites...i see on her chest what appears to be her feathers all crumpled or matted-skin is not irritated but I think I maybe see mites maybe that look like dusty little pieces of sand—side note, this makes me cringe-should I follow up with what you suggested and use that spray??? Help

 

[aart]

I think I maybe see mites maybe that look like dusty little pieces of sand—side note, this makes me cringe-should I follow up with what you suggested and use that spray???

I would not treat unless you're sure she has bugs.

My Bug check notes:
Have you checked them over real well for mites and/or lice?

Google images of lice/mites and their eggs before the inspection so you'll know what you're looking for.

Part the feathers right down to the skin around vent, head/neck and under wings.

Best done well after dark with a strong flashlight/headlight, easier to 'catch' bird and also to check for the mites that live in structure and only come out at night to feed off roosting birds.

Wipe a white paper towel along the underside of roost to look for red smears(smashed well fed mites).

Good post about mite ID by Lady McCamley:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/my-chicken-has-mites-now-what.1273674/page-2#post-20483008

 

[krowl]

I have an update! So, after investigating as much as I could and following all of the guidance in here, I decided, with winter coming, I should just take my girl to the chicken vet, sounds silly to some I am sure, but I didn't want to risk a winter with a possible already weakened immune system or something going on...so I took my small flock in and I am happy to report that they said the girls look great, there were no signs of mites/lice/parasites, all appear to be eating well, and what she said about my Americauna is that her feathers must be getting the way that they look from the way that she roosts...
So, Im just happy that all is well with this flock and everyone is healthy!