I raised all nine of my chickens from babies. they have always lived together. I went out this evening to check on them and I found one was missing over half her tail feathers and over half its feather around her neck. I stood there and watched for about 5 minutes and found that two of my other hens were pecking and pulling out her feathers. I have removed her for the nite. What could have caused the change in behavior? Also once I get her healed up will I ever be able to put her back in with the rest of my hens?
Okay so I have been having the exact same problem and it is getting worst and worst I now have 6 hens missing butt feathers. I went to rural kind looking for anti pick medicine and they told me to feed them blood meal and that would stop it. The lady that told me this used to have about 275 chickens and she went to the vet and that is what they told her. I posted a thing on here jsut a few seconds ago asking if it really worked but I haven't got a reply yett. I sure do hope it does.
You'll have to keep her separated for awhile. Feed them some protein... crushed boiled eggs, I give mine farmed salmon. Unfortunately, once they start picking and eating feathers, they usually don't stop. Watch the two offenders carefully.
I had this issue a few weeks ago.. I think it is that they need extra protien.... I never thought about salmon.... I have some canned pink salmon that isnt fit for human consumtion because it is too mushy (not bad or anything) I think I will try to give them some of this tonight! (cat will get some too)
I'd a very similar issue with my silkie recently. Initially it was just the other hens being curious about the new feathers, and a little bit of asserting dominance - but once they'd tasted the feathers they just wouldn't stop and she'd have to hide. We fed them some catfood (I know, sounds icky), and now they peck her once or twice in the mornings and then lose interest - so I guess it was just a protein issue
