Redness on skin and loss of feathers

[amoona103]

Hi,

I have a 2 year old rhode island red who has hardly any feathers on her neck, and some of the skin on her neck is red.
She recently was broody, and had pulled out her feathers then. I was able to break the broodiness, yet she still hasn't grown back her feathers. I'm thinking it's either a lack of protein, or mites/lice. I'm hoping she just needs more protein, but I'm not sure why her skin is red.
I checked her for any mites or lice, but couldn't find any. I don't think she's been laying either, I'm pretty sure she's only laid once or twice since she stopped being broody. She's only had the redness for a few days.

(sorry these pictures aren't great, she wouldn't hold still)











Thank you!

 

[Wyorp Rock]

It could be lice/mites or feather picking.
Have you observed any of the other hens picking at her?

Usually feathers won't grow back until the hen molts, but she may benefit from extra protein. You can give her hard boiled/scrambled egg, tuna, mackerel or meat for a protein boost or provide a higher protein commercial feed like all flock, just make sure to offer oyster shell free choice.

Check your coop/nesting area for any signs of lice/mites or even ants which can cause redness and irritation.

http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/2012/08/poultry-lice-and-mites-identification.html
http://www.fresheggsdaily.com/2013/02/mites-how-to-prevent-them-and-treat.html
http://fresheggsdaily.com/2012/01/dust-bathing-beauties.html