[macpee2]

Hi, Im new to chicken keeping and have five ex battery hens, only one is laying but I noticed that 3 of them have quite bare bottoms and one of them is quite red and sore looking, are they moulting or being pecked.  They do not seem distressed

[daisy1990]

Hi moulting usually happens in stages in a certain order (different parts of the body first) mine have never moulted bottoms first so whilst it is possible, I think it more likely that the feathers are being pulled out.  the hens can do this themselves (particularly if stressed or bored) or others can be pecking them out.  If you look closely can you see any new feathers growing or any peck marks?  If you think they are being pecked purple spray can be used to cover the raw area (this is an antiseptic and puts the others off pecking)

good luck

[macpee2]

Hi, Thanks for that I will get some spray and have a closer look when I go out to see them

[daisy1990]

you are welcome- let us know how you get on