why are my chickens picking at eachother?

[patnjess]

I think they are picking at eachother. at least I think they are. The hen on their backs are raw and are missing their feathers. My chickens are not crowded by any means they are cooped at night many predetors and during the day are aloud to roam most of the time. Why are they doing this. I haven't seen them do it but imagine it is them doing it to themselves. and only have one rooster. This is only the grown chicken of course that is happening with. And the rooster is fine. Any ideas of how to stop it and get their feathers make it looks painful. I could snap a quick pic if it would help. Let me know.

 

[Mahonri]

They may need more protein.

 

[WoodlandWoman]

It could also be damage from the hens being mated by the rooster. At first the feathers get broken and then the bare skin gets injured. In that case, having the effected hens wear those chicken saddles/aprons would help. They cover the hen's back and protect her from his claws and spurs. Shortening his spurs might help, too. Sometimes roosters like particular hens and will mate with them more than the others. So, even with forty chickens, some could have their feathers damaged more than others. You could spend a little time watching them, to see if they are actually pecking or if it's just damage from mating.

 

[backyarder717]

Quote:
Yep...its the rooster...i have a few hens exactly like that....they are his "favorites"

and its spring!