What is this on my Buff Orpington’s back?

[tcaporale2427]

We noticed this patch of lost feathers on one of our Buff Orpingtons today. We’re not sure if she’s pecking out her feathers or if she has an infection of some sort. Has anyone seen this before? If so, what can we do to treat it? She seems happy and healthy, but we want to get her feathers back to normal. Thanks for the help!

 

[Poultrybonkers]

looks to be over-mated by a roo

 

[BresChicks]

Yes, looks like a rooster is over mating her. Their talons rip out feathers. They will also rip the feathers out of the back of the head.

 

[tcaporale2427]

Oh my!! Poor girl! I have seen chicken saddles online. Have you guys tried this or know anyone that has? Would this be the best option? Should we put something on it so it doesn’t end up getting infected? Sorry for all the questions!!

 

[Eggcessive]

You can make a simple hen saddle out of a piece of polar fleece or other stretchy fabric. Cut a 7x9 inch length, and cut 2 slits for the wings, about 2 1/2 inches long, and it will slip over the wings which holds it on. There is no sewing and it is one poece. Then you can taper it with some scissors to fit better. Here is a link for making them:
http://www.linnacresfarm.com/2014/04/how-to-make-simple-hen-saddleapron.html

 

[BresChicks]

I have never tried a saddle myself. I usually try to separate the female hen from my roosters for a bit. That’s usually fixes the problem.

 

[Poultrybonkers]

I have never tried a saddle myself. I usually try to separate the female hen from my roosters for a bit. That’s usually fixes the problem.

thats what i do

 

[Eggcessive]

You can remove the rooster to his own pen for awhile until he matures and calms down some. When there is a bare spot from overmating, it might take until the next big molt until the feathers grow back. So, the hen saddle might come in handy. In my first year of chicken keeping my young rooster did some overmating to about 5 of my hens. I used the saddles until their feathers grew back, and never needed them again.