Why all the back/saddle feathers gone?

[mom2landj]

 

[mom2landj]

I thought my chickens were loosing these feathers because I had an abundance of roosters but now I only have one rooster and a few of my hens still look like this. Sorry the pic is blurry but they are just bald on their backs. What could it be?

 

[JustAChickenLoverOverHere]

Can you get any clearer pictures? That might help.

 

[JustAChickenLoverOverHere]

It might be that they're attacking themselves within the flock. How many hens do you have?

 

[mom2landj]

It might be that they're attacking themselves within the flock. How many hens do you have?

Only 5 and 1 rooster. They should have plenty of room. They have the coop and run. It’s winter in upstate NY but I’ve had plenty more chickens at this time of year. I will try to get better pics.

 

[JustAChickenLoverOverHere]

Only 5 and 1 rooster. They should have plenty of room. They have the coop and run. It’s winter in upstate NY but I’ve had plenty more chickens at this time of year. I will try to get better pics.

Is the rooster an aggressive mater? How many hens have this problem?

 

[theoldchick]

Sometimes a rooster over mates with a hen. Why? Maybe she's too slow to get out of the way. They do make hen saddles to cover the area however you need to examine you hen and make sure she does not have mites on her. Also, supply a good quality diet to help her grow new feathers.


https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/bald-back-on-hen.663883/

 

[EggSighted4Life]

I thought my chickens were loosing these feathers because I had an abundance of roosters but now I only have one rooster and a few of my hens still look like this. Sorry the pic is blurry but they are just bald on their backs. What could it be?

Hi there and welcome to BYC! You know the original problem.

Once you've managed that.. the feather may not grow new ones in until molt.

You might use saddles if the skin is red or angry while waiting for the replacements.

Noting also that even when you hen/roo ratio is correct a rooster may have favorites and not spread the love around equally.

If the love is being spread equally then it's possible some gals have more brittle feathers that are more easily damaged than others.

Using a quality formulated ration like a grower or flock raiser with oyster shell free choice on the side (instead of layer) CAN impact feather quality.. since feathers are made from 90% protein AND its amino acids. Excess treats like scratch can diminish ALL things heath wise. Fed in moderation in addition to a formulated ration is fine at rates NOT above 10% total daily intake.

Hope this helps some!

 

[MeowthLover_ThatsRight]

I thought my chickens were loosing these feathers because I had an abundance of roosters but now I only have one rooster and a few of my hens still look like this. Sorry the pic is blurry but they are just bald on their backs. What could it be?

i only have one rooster too, but he still picks faves, and that's why. you can buy hen saddles to prevent feather loss. you can also make one yourself. its basically just a sweater.
dont worry, theyre not sick. you've just got a picky rooster.

 

[mom2landj]

Here are some better pictures. Feathers around her head are bare too