Poorly hens?

cudders · « **on:** October 28, 2007, 16:47 »

Hi,

Just been down and noticed two hens with feathers missing from around the neck.

Does not look inflamed and I did notice the cock pecking at one of the other hens...

Do I need to worry?

Cudders

Aunt Sally · « **Reply #1 on:** October 28, 2007, 17:45 »

Knorr cubes are better than oxo

cudders · « **Reply #2 on:** October 28, 2007, 21:01 »

What?

Aunt Sally · « **Reply #3 on:** October 28, 2007, 21:07 »

Do you suspect the cock is pulling their feathers out (possibly during nuptials) ?

They could be moulting, the neck if often the first area to lose feathers :!:

cudders · « **Reply #4 on:** October 28, 2007, 21:16 »

Hmm not too sure.

As far as moulting goes, is there a time of year for this or is it random?

Also how much loss would be normal? It's neck looks like it ready for the freezer lol.

Cudders

GrannieAnnie · « **Reply #5 on:** October 28, 2007, 21:25 »

Cudders, I've just thought, your chooks haven't got a run with wire fencing have they? if yes, what size are the holes in the fencing? Some of our wire is just big enough for the chooks to get their heads through when they try to reach the grass the other side.

That sometimes leads to them losing feathers round their necks. Just a thought!

Aunt Sally · « **Reply #6 on:** October 28, 2007, 21:28 »

Have a close look at your hens all over to see if they have any new feathers coming through :idea:

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