ROOSTER FEATHER PROBLEMS

[stephcraig78]

Our sizzle roo has had a serious issue with regrowing his feathers. Especially on his rear. We had a tom turkey in with him and all the hens including two hen turkeys. He was getting picked on so we removed the Tom and things seemed to calm down. His feathers still haven’t grown back and it’s been at least two months. His body feathers seem rough also. He is a healthy bird otherwise. Here are a couple pics. If you have any ideas what might be his problem please let me know. I’ve checked for mites and none of the hens have any issues. If you need more info just ask. Thanks for your help.

 

[The Phantom]

Have you checked him for mites

 

[dawg53]

His feathers will regrow with the next molt, usually in the fall or early winter. In the meantime you can give him gamebird feed which is higher in protein and will help with feather regrowth. Give it to him for one month, then wean him off the gamebird feed back to regular feed.
Also, it's not a good idea to mix chickens and turkeys due to blackhead disease which is deadly to turkeys.

 

[stephcraig78]

Yeah no mites on any of them. I’ve read the sizzle breed has a hard time regrowing feathers due to the extremely thick shaft on feathers. He has some that have trying to push through skin for a little while. But his rear has stayed pretty much bald and somewhat red like it’s irritated.

 

[stephcraig78]

Yeah I’ve heard that. They’ve been together since they were all babies and so far no problems. But yes I am aware of the risk.

 

[dawg53]

The cecal worm that infects chickens is the carrier of the protozoa that is deadly to chickens, not so much in chickens. It would be best to set up a regular worming routine for your chickens. In any case, good luck with your roo.

 

[stephcraig78]

We usually do a broad spectrum wormer every spring. How often is it recommended?

 

[dawg53]

We usually do a broad spectrum wormer every spring. How often is it recommended?

It depends on your soil conditions. Wet or damp soil may require more frequent wormings than dry or sandy soils.
I worm my birds monthly. As a matter of fact I'm currently in a 3 day worming period with my birds.