Pecking

[mattydaddy]

Hello new to the forum i have 9 hens they have a 8x10 run out behind the coop its a 10x10 converted old well house they are right at 10 months old recently i started noticing they were missing feathers above there tails in the saddle area after checking for mites and all other things i could think of i sat and watched them for awhile and noticed they are pecking each-other and pulling the feathers out they stay fed watered and have plenty of room any suggestions?

 

[FarmFreshEggs]

Im sorry to hear about your problem. It could be from them not getting enogh calciem in their diet, so they are eating feathers from others to get theirs back.

 

[BamaSilkies]

Sounds like they are lacking some vitamins or protein. Try the two links see if it helps if not use the search box there are tons more posts.


https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=557512

https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=228297

 

[1muttsfan]

Hi mattydaddy and welcome to BYC

Treat the affected areas with blu-kote (or a similar product) to help the area to heal and discourage more pecking (blu-kote will do both these things, but be careful it really stains).

 

[dawg53]

I recommend that you feed them gamebird feed, it's higher in protein than regular layer feed. Also, their run/pen might need to be expanded.