[Therapy]

Three of my four hens have developed bald patches on their chests.  In every other way they seem happy, & healthy as normal. They'r still laying, feeding, drinking and generaly mooching around the garden as usual, and there is no sign of feather pecking.  Could it be lice?? Up untill recently I've sprinkled diatom in the nesting box on a regular basis but have missed this from my routine lately. Any suggestions welcome.   

[Vember]

Hi Therapy

Welcome to the Hen House

Have a look round the vent area that's where most creepy crawlies hang out 

How old are they? What breed?  Do they perch at night or sit in the nestbox?

Sarah

[woodburner]

Broody hens get a bit thin feathered on their undersides, but there's usually more obvious indications as well. e.g.staying in the nest box after laying and rearranging the eggs.

[Therapy]

They are about 12mths now, two are Bluebells and the other is a dark sussex who I've now noticed has a bald patch under her chin as well, and they all roost on the perch at night. 

I've sprinked diatom in the nesting box now and on the perch, and have orderd some lice powder and poultry spice.  Does this sound like a good plan