picking and pecking themselves

[catterbug]

My chickens today started picking/pecing at themselves. It seems different from preening. They are about 1 years old. Could they be starting their molt? Do I have mites or bugs? These are my first chickens so I am not sure what I am looking for.

 

[dawg53]

Quote:
It could be lice/mites. Pick them up and visually inspect them especially around their vent area. Here's info in this link. http://ohioline.osu.edu/vme-fact/0018.html
It could be molt. If that's the case, you could increase their protein intake by feeding them gamebird feed. It's about 22% protein vs the regular 16% in layer feed. Higher protein intake will help them regrow feathers a little quicker.

 

[cochinGurl]

is there any redness or rash on their skin? could be mites