Why would a chicken go bald?

[Lisa202]

I have a 26 week old cochin that seems to be missing feathers on her head. Last week I noticed a 1/2 inch bald spot on her head above her eye. I put Blue Kote on it just in case she was being pecked at. I didn't see any evidence of any pecking going on.

Now this week, the spot is bigger. Again no pecking evidence, like scabs, wound marks or blood. This time I put Pick No More on it.

Could this be her molting? (even though there are no other feathers lost) Or is it a definite sign that she is being pecked on? (by a chicken which a very precise peck as to not be touching any skin)

Thanks!

 

[galanie]

I think she's getting pecked. They don't always break the skin. I have a hen that will pull out feathers but not break the skin. She will peck the comb too, and not leave marks. I only know about this because I saw her do it. She isn't one to just go around picking on someone, her pecks are warnings. But yes, they can peck and pull out feathers without breaking the skin.

 

[Lisa202]

Do you know how to stop this other than applying the Pick No More? I figured that I would put that on instead of the Blue Kote b/c I know that it tastes bad. Hopefully this will be enough to stop her?

Poor Daisy

 

[Dray67]

Genetics they say its on the mothers side but my dad was bald and so am i. My moms dad had plenty of hair!

 

[Uzuri]

Do you have a rooster? On the head it sounds like it might be mating related (roosters grab and often pull head feathers/combs)

You might try Vick Vapo-rub, and then pinless peepers.

I went for months without ever catching my feather-pickers. Thought it was the rooster; got rid of him and the feather loss continued. The peepers fixed it, and last year's pullets never picked it up, so they don't have to wear them. I never did catch any of them at it.