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Why is she doing this? How Do I make her stop?

Discussion in 'Chicken Behaviors and Egglaying' started by wbruder17, Aug 20, 2010.

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  1. Aug 20, 2010 #1
    wbruder17

    wbruder17 Songster

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    My Welsummer chicken has very recently begun to pull out the tail feathers of my Polish rooster and then eat them. She chases him around and has plucked his behind raw and bloody in 2 days. They've been together for a while and I have 8 other chickens in a large pen. He won't fight back and I'm afraid he will be a bald-butted rooster very soon. Any suggestions?
     
  2. Aug 20, 2010 #2
    greenfamilyfarms

    greenfamilyfarms Big Pippin'

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    Most chicken will start picking feathers out of boredom or in over crowded conditions. Also, Polish are easily the victims of picking since most of the time they can't see their assailants coming. Try putting some things in their coop to keep them busy - such as veggies for them to peck on. Also, make sure the are getting enough calcium via oyster shell or ground limestone.
     
  3. Aug 20, 2010 #3
    wbruder17

    wbruder17 Songster

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    Yes, that's what I can't understand. They have oyster shells and grit. I give them treats from the garden every day (I'm a teacher so I don't work in the summer). They also often get to hang out and run all over the yard, so it can't be boredom either. Is she just a mean chicken? Thanks for your reply!
     
  4. Aug 20, 2010 #4
    Imp

    Imp All things share the same breath- Chief Seattle

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    Yes she could just be mean.
    Also may be a sign of her not eating enough protein. You might try to give her some extra sources of protein.

    Good luck
    Imp
     
  5. Aug 20, 2010 #5
    Mtn Cur

    Mtn Cur Songster

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    One good twist of the neck will get her to stop. No just kidding....I like getting my money back, I would sell or trade that one off.
     
  6. Aug 21, 2010 #6
    wbruder17

    wbruder17 Songster

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    What are other sources of protein for chickens? I won't get rid of her. Funny thing...she's also the only one he mates with... Interesting.
     
  7. Aug 21, 2010 #7
    beachchickie

    beachchickie Songster

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    Canned tuna, peanut butter mixed with yogurt,leftover meat scraps. Give it everyday.
     

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