Serious injury to the back of hens head

[KayTee]

Could she be stressed by the fact that she is separated from the other hens?

If she is a very social bird then she may be missing her friends. Is it possible for you to let her see the others during the day whilst still keeping her separated - by putting her cage in the coop or run for a while, or keeping her in a run adjacent to the other birds for example?

 

[KYTinpusher]

I'm glad she is doing better. I agree that the feather picking may be stress, or may be just her grooming herself during molt. It is that time of year. Either way, try to support her with some more protein. Mash up some hard boiled egg yolks and mix in some yogurt - preferably a good, organic yogurt with multiple live cultures. if she doesn't appear interested at first, sprinkle a little of her feed on top. She'll soon learn how good it is. Do you have a plan yet to reintroduce her to the coop?

 

[juniper rain]

So, daisy is healed. All feathers are growing back in. We tried to introduce her back into the flock, but they don't seem very accepting. I'm new to having chickens, so pardon my ignorance. Any tips to help with this transition, and bring her back into the group? A little side info...daisy has been staying in our garage while she has been healing. It's kind of become her new home. Our other birds free-range during the day. We let daisy out, and she roams around just outside of the garage doors. She made her way to the other part of the yard, where the other chickens are, but they kind of "chased" her away, and now she's back in her spot.

 

[JanetMarie]

The first time re-introducing a hen to the group was heart breaking to see her not liking to be with other chickens anymore. Regardless, we left her with them, and kept an eye on the group to intervene if she was getting picked on too much. It didn't take long, and she started foraging with the others the same day, and shortly after things were back to normal again. I believe it depends on individual personality as to how well they re-incorporate.

 

[the poppster]

Toss some treats wide in the yard....spread it out and let her out with them....distraction seems to work in these situations..

 

[juniper rain]

Our girl is healed and back in the flock. I'm so happy we could help her after such an extreme injury! I'm a happy chicken parent. Thanks to you all for your helpful advice!