What is going on with my girls?

[PaulOlson68]

So I have noticed that the tail end of a few of my hens looks like they are losing their feathers and the spots seem to be getting bigger. Also one has this issue around her neck and I am concerned that it might be hen pecking or mites. Any suggestions?

 

[nuthatched]

Do you have a rooster? What's their diet?

 

[PaulOlson68]

Do you have a rooster? What's their diet?

No I don't have a rooster and their diet is the 17% layer feed. I also give them clover etc.

 

[nuthatched]

No I don't have a rooster and their diet is the 17% layer feed. I also give them clover etc.

I'd treat for mites and move to a higher protein feed if possible.
Completely clean out the coop, treat with a permethrine bases product and get all new bedding and litter.
You can also dust your hens.

 

[PaulOlson68]

I'd treat for mites and move to a higher protein feed if possible.
Completely clean out the coop, treat with a permethrine bases product and get all new bedding and litter.
You can also dust your hens.

Thanks for this. I clean out the pen monthly and thoroughly too. They have lots of dust baths in the run as they made holes and are in them all the time. I was wondering if it is a diet thing or pecking from other hens

 

[nuthatched]

Thanks for this. I clean out the pen monthly and thoroughly too. They have lots of dust baths in the run as they made holes and are in them all the time. I was wondering if it is a diet thing or pecking from other hens

Dust bathes don't really prevent mites.
It could be diet or hens that are bored or aggressive from tight quarters. Or they're just jerks

 

[Auntiejessi3]

How many hens? What is your setup like? How big is your coop in feet? Pics would be great

 

[BastyPutt]

I'd treat for mites and move to a higher protein feed if possible

Yes, this

The mites are causing the loss, then there isn't enough protein this time of year to keep up spring eggs and new feather development.

 

[PaulOlson68]

How many hens? What is your setup like? How big is your coop in feet? Pics would be great

Yes, this

The mites are causing the loss, then there isn't enough protein this time of year to keep up spring eggs and new feather development.

Oh interesting...I am doing 17% layer feed...what protein amount would you suggest?

 

[BastyPutt]

Oh interesting...I am doing 17% layer feed...what protein amount would you suggest?

If they were mine, I'd do with a turkey/pheasant starter or a meat bird/broiler crumble. Both should be mid 20's on the protein. It will depend on the brand.

Make sure to offer oyster shells and grit (if they don't have access to good grit naturally) as well.

Game bird is going to be around 30%, and that will probably be too much.