Why are they losing feathers?

[bobby d]

Can anyone tell me why my chickens are losing feathers on their rump? I know it's not from the roosters cuz their doing the samething. I looked for fleas, ticks, lice and other bugs but nothing. Had a friend say she's having the same problem and we live in different towns. Is it just the time of year? Any suggestions appreciated, thanks!!

 

[chicmom]

Observation is the key....my bet is you've got a particularly mean chicken--could be a hen or a roo, that is pulling the feathers out of the rumps of everyone. Are they penned up alot? Maybe a bit crowded?

My small flock had this problem, and so one day I just sat quietly and observed for a while....and it was a very nasty New Hampshire Red....she would come up behind each chicken, take a look at their backs, and WHAM! Rip out a feather or two. I got rid of her, and now everybody's feathers are back and they're all happy campers.

Watch and you will see....

Sharon

 

[bobby d]

Hmmm I haven't really sat down and observed them. I think I'll do that but we free range, they have plenty of room. Only 3 are pinned up cause we are going to start collecting their eggs to incubate and they are doing the samething. Who knows! I have no clue!