New Flock, New Problems

[Lacy Duckwing]

So, I have just gotten a new flock of six four month old pullets. The problem is that they enjoy eating feathers. Eating feathers that are laying around in their yard isn't so bad; but that's not the feathers that they are after. They will walk up and pluck feathers off each others' backs and butts. It's a constant thing, also. On some hens it's so bad that they look like a rooster's favorite, but there is no rooster. I'm guessing that they are doing this because they are lacking on some nutrient? Is there something that can be done to stop them from doing this? If it is a nutrient, what nutrient will help stop this?

 

[sourland]

Increased protein may help if it is caused by nutritional problems. If it is boredom induced, more space , hanging cabbage - anything to occupy them may help.

 

[Lacy Duckwing]

Increased protein may help if it is caused by nutritional problems. If it is boredom induced, more space , hanging cabbage - anything to occupy them may help.

Ok, now what would be a good thing (other than eggs) to give them for protein?

 

[3KillerBs]

Ok, now what would be a good thing (other than eggs) to give them for protein?

High protein chicken feed to start with.

Meat scraps (not fatty or salty). Not sure what else.

 

[keesmom]

How much space do they have?

 

[Lacy Duckwing]

How much space do they have?

I'm not certain as far as space on coop + run, but they are going to be moving into a bigger coop, and hopefully a much bigger yard. I love my huge chicken yards . From what I can see, they were already doing it long before I even got them, so I know that it's nothing to do with where they are.

 

[aart]

I'm not certain as far as space on coop + run

Dimensions and pics would help here.
Also what all and how exactly are you feeding?

 

[Lacy Duckwing]

Dimensions and pics would help here.
Also what all and how exactly are you feeding?

I'm feeding them what the person that I got them from was feeding them. The grain is a grower grain and a homemade treat that that person gave me to give to them that has a lot of stuff in that. Please don't ask me what all the ingredients in the treat are, because I've only figured out a couple of things that are in that. Plus, something that I started to feed them was Plantain Weed. That has always been a favorite to any chicken that I've ever owned and there is always an overabundance growing around our house.

 

[Folly's place]

So diet could be a problem, and you aren't sure what's actually being fed? Even if their main diet is good, too much of the treats offered can be the issue.
Also space and boredom, and breed types. Some birds are just going to be like that, and then pinless peepers are indicated.
Mary

 

[Lacy Duckwing]

So diet could be a problem, and you aren't sure what's actually being fed? Even if their main diet is good, too much of the treats offered can be the issue.
Also space and boredom, and breed types. Some birds are just going to be like that, and then pinless peepers are indicated.
Mary

Ok. So do you think cutting back on the treats would help? Thanks for your input @Folly's place .