Partridge feather problem

[Broodermy]

Hi, I have this partridge who seems to have a feather problem but I'm not sure what ot may be and what could have caused it. Does anyone have any ideas what it is and how to cure it please?? Pics below

 

[sylviethecochin]

Did this just develop recently, or has it been ongoing?

According to this thread (https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/frizzle-ringneck-pheasants-updated-with-pic.414151/) curled feathers can result from a diet too high in protein, and low in other nutrients. If that's the problem, it should go away with a good diet and next moult.

 

[Broodermy]

Hi, it just developed after this molt (october/novemver) I've always fed them a 18% protein crumbs, corn and 16% protein layer mix, never changed a thing and till last molt they were absolutely normal. Ps thanks for your kind help

 

[sylviethecochin]

@TwoCrows @007Sean might be able to help.

 

[TwoCrows]

It's hard to say what could be causing this abnormal feather growth. Molting in older birds is quite stressful and can cause feathers to grow in thin, weak and brittle. As stated above, too much protein or lack of certain minerals will also cause poor growth. There are virus's that cause poor feather growth and disease of the liver will definitely cause skin irritation and very brittle feathers.

It looks like she may be over preening them? The first feather definitely looks chewed off. Does she have chewed off feather stems on her body?

There isn't much you can do about the way the feathers look now until they are molted out again next fall. But you might boost her immune system, and give her a thorough check for mites, yeast or bacterial skin ailments ( the skin will look red and peely) add a vitamin supplement to her diet and get more greens into her diet too. Greens are super food for the liver and really help detoxify it. They boost the immunity as well.

Maybe Sean can tell us more.

 

[007Sean]

You will usually see that feather condition in young, juvenile birds that are in over crowded conditions. Another contributing factor is the quality and percent protein of the feed ration. A balance and complete feed of 24% protein is adequate for most gamebirds. No need to feed the layer pellets, if you feel that they are lacking in calcium, (thin shelled eggs) you can give oyster grit "free choice" to the birds. A lack of Omega3 can cause poor feather development as well, you may try feeding a fish based cat kibble to them as a treat, cat kibble is usually high in protein, around 30%, so go easy on it.

All the things @TwoCrows , mentioned can cause the symptoms/ feather condition as well. HTH