Rooster feathers

[nicksondag]

Any idea why my rooster (who used to be fully covered in red feathers) is looking disheveled? Just his feathers on his wing back and sides. He’s a solo rooster with 28 hens and no apparent pecking order so not worried about another rooster or hens pecking at him. Comb is due to frostbite.

 

[nuthatched]

Have you treated for mites? What's his diet?

 

[LaFleche]

What are the dimensions of the chicken pop door?

 

[StinkyAcres]

Check his preen gland for infection and get a photo if you can.

 

[MysteryChicken]

His feathers are being picked.

 

[StinkyAcres]

His feathers are being picked.

Are they? To me it looks like his feathers are all there, he's just not preening properly or there is a nutritional deficiency.

 

[MysteryChicken]

Are they? To me it looks like his feathers are all there, he's just not preening properly.

It's a bunch of broken saddles, revealing fluff underneath.

 

[nicksondag]

Have you treated for mites? What's his diet?

I haven’t treated for mites. I’ve checked for further signs on them and don’t believe that’s an issue. Diet is Country Companion 16% protein (just what my layers eat). Light scratch grains mixed in feed when it’s 0 degrees or below and I’ll throw it outside for enrichment when they’re ranging. Occasional crushed oyster shells.

 

[nicksondag]

What are the dimensions of the chicken pop door?

Roughly 2’ tall 1’ wide

 

[Eggcessive]

He has frostbite on his comb and wattles from freezing temperatures which you have already said. What is his exact age? He might be molting or then hens could be picking his feathers. Scratch is not necessary for cold temperatures, which many recommend. A balanced chicken feed is better for him. I might consider upping his protein with an all flock or flock raiser 20% protein feed. Scrambled egg, tuna, and canned at food in small amounts are other things that may increase his protein.