Naked Butts and Backs

[momaroo]

I have a flock of about 30 hens. Approximately 6 of them look like they are getting ready for the oven. They have anywhere from NO feathers on their back to a square of baldness, about 3 inches square, just above their tails. In addition, many of these same hens have no fluffy butts - they have naked butts. I was told that if I don't see feathers around, others are probably plucking and eating them in an effort to get more protein. I feed them good quality feed and add protein rich foods as treats. I have looked for mites etc. This has been going on like this for months and I dont see any sign of regrowth. What gives???

 

[nchls school]

I have a flock of about 30 hens.  Approximately 6 of them look like they are getting ready for the oven.  They have anywhere from NO feathers on their back to a square of baldness, about 3 inches square, just above their tails.  In addition, many of these same hens have no fluffy butts - they have naked butts.  I was told that if I don't see feathers around, others are probably plucking and eating them in an effort to get more protein.  I feed them good quality feed and add protein rich foods as treats. I have looked for mites etc. This has been going on like this for months and I dont see any sign of regrowth. What gives???

If you can, post a picture but I suspect that they are being plucked by other hens or by themselves. Plucking is not always due to a nutrient shortage. It can be a bad habit, bullying, molt, etc. My advice is to spend some time observing this flock to determine what is going on. You probably won't have to watch for long. Good luck.

 

[momaroo]

This is the worst one. I actually spend a lot of time with the chickens. Oddly, the only one that I have ever seen being a bully is this one. I have never seen any of them do this to each other. If it is bullying, how do I stop it?

 

[nchls school]

This seems excessive to be bullying, but could be. No one else is replying to your post. Try a new thread with a different name. SEVERE FEATHER LOSS-DISEASE?-HELP NEEDED in this forum.