Pinless Peepers Questions

[Astrid]

Hi there,
I've got some picking going on in my small flock of 8 hens (no roosters.) One of my Silver Laced Wyandottes and my poor sweet Speckled Sussex girls are the baldest. I've tried many things-- upping protein, etc. to no avail. I'm considering purchasing some Pinless Peepers, but am wondering if the girls have to wear them indefinitely? Or will they just serve to break the habit after a couple of weeks? Are there any drawbacks/risks?

Thanks for any information
astrid

 

[Astrid]

Anyone?

 

[ChicKat]

Strangely enough, I recently read that feather picking can also be a salt deficiency.....

"Since salt deficiency causes chickens to crave blood and feathers, try adding one tablespoon of salt per gallon of water in the drinker for one morning, then repeat the salt treatment 3 days later. At all other times provide plenty of fresh, unsalted water." p 121
Storey's Guide to Raising Chickens by Gail Damerow.

Also in the UK they have a product called 'bumpa bits'. It prevents the chicken from being able to peck, and people who have used them say that peace returns to their flock. The omlet forum in the UK at their shop has some.

I have a hen that I see plucking feathers now and then---and then eating what she has just pulled off another chicken. I keep thinking I will put bumpa bits on her...then I don't see the behavior. With Bumpa Bits, they can continue to eat and drink normally.