My Hen is losing feathers

[dadbern]

So a few weeks ago i noticed one of my hens losing feathers at the back of her neck. At first ii thought it could be mites so I spread some diatomaceous earth in the coop and mad sure the hens had enough dirt and sand for their dirt bath. I have 4 hens and I have 3 female ducks. I have kept a close eye on the ducks, but, they are not aggressive at all. This morning I noticed some of my hens feathers in the nesting box and that it had gotten a little worse. I know it has been unseasonably warm here in Colorado Springs, but, could she be starting to molt? My hens are 38 weeks old and my ducks are 34 weeks old.

 

[Wyorp Rock]

Looks like loss due to picking.
Observe behaviors, especially during roosting.

 

[dadbern]

is there any way to prevent it other than giving my other hens a stern scolding...lol

 

[Wyorp Rock]

Depends on who's picking at her. If it's the Ducks, then put them in their own pen.

 

[dadbern]

I don't think its the ducks, they are not aggressive. My roosts are 30" off the coop floor and my nesting boxes are 24" off the floor

 

[Wyorp Rock]

I don't think its the ducks, they are not aggressive. My roosts are 30" off the coop floor and my nesting boxes are 24" off the floor

Then it's time to observe and see who the offender(s) are.

 

[Mrs. K]

She would be young to molt, so I don't think it is that, and it really doesn't look right.

To me, it looks like she stuck her head through something, and pulled back catching the feathers? Is that possible?