I apologize if this is the wrong thread, but it didn't seem like an emergency and more of a chicken behavior issue.
I have a few pullets who are missing feathers on the back of their heads. I know about hen saddles for mating, but that only protects their backs and I'm also concerned about Florida heat compounded by chickens wearing. Basically what is a blanket.
They have a 50 x 20 run and two coops (8x10 and 16x12) for 37 chickens - so space isn't an issue. We also have lots of clutter and roosts (the playground, as we call it).
I have attached a photo. Is this mating behavior or is this the pullets bullying one another. I haven't observed any bullying and never observed a cockerel doing this during mating - and it's only two of the girls that seem average in the pecking order. We have been applying vetricyn but is there a way to discourage the behavior?
I have a few pullets who are missing feathers on the back of their heads. I know about hen saddles for mating, but that only protects their backs and I'm also concerned about Florida heat compounded by chickens wearing. Basically what is a blanket.
They have a 50 x 20 run and two coops (8x10 and 16x12) for 37 chickens - so space isn't an issue. We also have lots of clutter and roosts (the playground, as we call it).
I have attached a photo. Is this mating behavior or is this the pullets bullying one another. I haven't observed any bullying and never observed a cockerel doing this during mating - and it's only two of the girls that seem average in the pecking order. We have been applying vetricyn but is there a way to discourage the behavior?