Shredder gene?

[chicky-little]

I recently purchased a few Orpington hens and one of the lavenders has some funky looking tail feathers. I have done a bit of researching since and have found reference to a recessive gene that could be the culprit, but I have not been able to find any pictures to reference to. Any suggestions?I will be upping their protein as I have read this could also be a problem,but the other hens' tails look fine. Any input would be appreciated.

 

[ChickNanny13]

They kind of look like she had a perm. Is it only in the rear section? Wonder if you got yourself a "mutated" feather gene. Keep us updated with her feather development

 

[chicky-little]

Yes only in the back. I will keep it updated. Perhaps with some better feed and a molt she will look like she went to the salon rather than like she did her own $10 perm

 

[ChickNanny13]

She still BEAUTIFUL Orpingtons are my favorite breed ... Been researching the "bantam" sized. My Chicken House is 8x12x7 & 4BO fit nicely, so if I got bantam sized I can have more

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

I believe there's a gene associated with the lavender gene that causes feathers to fray. I believe it's a problem in multiple breeds that come in lavender. I believe it's genetic.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

https://poultrykeeper.com/poultry-breeding/the-lavender-gene/

 

[Amer]

It is in fact the gene associated with the lavender gene. Lavender can have lots of problems, and be worse than that, which is why I don't own any lavender fowl.
I don't know if you can access this or not, but it's an interesting discussion for sure.
http://www.the-coop.org/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=88090&page=all

 

[Cyprus]

Agreed, it comes with lavendar.
Poor feather quality is often associated with that gene.

 

[Sneebsey]

Agreed, it comes with lavendar.
Poor feather quality is often associated with that gene.

Although the shredder-gene is closely connected to Lavender, the two are not one-and-the-same. The linkage is similar to that found between the blue egg gene and the pea-comb gene; when connected they are usually inherited together, but will rarely and occasionally split. Here in the UK, our Lavender Araucana (the breed best loved in this colour) are completely devoid of the gene; it has been bred out.

 

[chicky-little]

Thanks. I wasn't aware of the gene when I purchased these ones. Now to decide if I continue with lavenders and attempt to breed it out of my flock or not. I have my eye on some black orpingtons, which was originally what I wanted but couldn't find. I can either just go with them or use them to improve my lavenders.