Not sure??

[Venelii]

One of my older hens started pecking and taking out feathers of one of my younger hens, then eating the feathers. They were getting along fine for a few months today I saw this happening not sure what it means and what to do.

 

[SunHwaKwon]

Sometimes it means a protein deficiency. What are you feeding them?

 

[Venelii]

Sometimes it means a protein deficiency. What are you feeding them?

I usually feed them various mixes like wheat and corn etc mix, granuled protein mixes and stuff that I also prepare like Mashed potatoes I also include some fruit and veg.

 

[SunHwaKwon]

It sounds like a nutritional deficiency, then. Do they get to free range? Where are you from? Do you not have free stores where you are? You don't have to use commercial feeds, but they are the easiest way to prevent deficiencies that can lead to health problems. Otherwise there are formulas online you can use to create your own mixes.

 

[micstrachan]

I would put them on a balanced feed only. Grower feeds can be anywhere from 20-22% protein, but they would need free choice oyster shell. I mix grower with layer, which seems to be working ok for my flock. In the mean time, you can offer a protein treat like scrambled egg or tuna.