Polish hen scratching herself to death- need help ASAP!

[Lauras010]

Have you tried trimming her head feathers so she can see better?

No I have not, but I’m willing to try. Do you happen to have a link or video showing how? I

 

[aart]

No I have not, but I’m willing to try. Do you happen to have a link or video showing how? I

Try some of these threads:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/se...ing+polish&t=post&c[title_only]=1&o=relevance

 

[Allsfairinloveandbugs]

Caged parrots are known to sometimes pluck their feathers due to boredom, isolation, not enough sunlight, etc etc. Scratching isnt the same as plucking, but the self-harm IS the same. If u have ruled out all medical possibilities, I think it may be good idea to get your polish house hen a feathered friend near her own age and size to keep her company. A companion May help her break the self-multilation habit, if that is her issue. Ive had parrots in the past but never personally dealt with a parrot that destructively plucked itself. It can be a fairly difficult habit to break, but there is a lot of info available re the issue. Xo research and decide if u think her scratching issue could be behavioral rather than medical. If u think behavioral, u will find lots of advice to help her break the habit.

 

[MissE]

Does she have access to a dust bath?

 

[Lauras010]

Does she have access to a dust bath?

Yes, one in her coop and we take her outside to a spot everyday, too.

 

[Lauras010]

Graphic warning

Update with photos to see how she is wounding herself...

 

[Sapphire Sebright]

Graphic warning

Update with photos to see how she is wounding herself...

Oh, poor thing. I'm sorry that I can't offer any help in this area -- I just wanted to pop in and say that I hope that you figure something out for her.

 

[BantyChooks]

Honestly, I have never seen anything of that sort before. I'm as confused as you are and hope you find a resolution. I'm impressed by your dedication, too.

 

[feather13]

Aw... she's such a beautiful bird! None of our chickens have ever had this issue, so I can't be much help. As per some of the advice here, I would keep trying to integrate her with the others or get a few new Polish chicks to hang out with.

She may be scared of her larger flock mates and they might occasionally peck at her, but chickens are such social animals. If you rule out parasites, etc. like you have (I'm so impressed by your care for this bird!), then it seems you could slowly try to integrate her. We currently have Phoenixes, Crevecoeurs and Fayoumis mixed in with some pretty rowdy standard breeds and there's been no problem.

 

[rebeccaH86]

Poor baby this may sound wierd but would those silicone caps for cats claws work to cover her nails ? might prevent more damage until the underlying issues is figured out . I wish you the best of luck with her.