[Lou65]

Hi I'm new here.

I've kept chickens for some time but have just hatched my first clutch of eggs using a little incubator.
The 4 chicks are 2 weeks old and seem happy and healthy. I have them in the house in a large brooder with an electric 'hen' and am feeding them on chick crumbs which they enjoy. They're growing well and, judging by the amount of poo they do, and food and water they get through, eating plenty.
One of the chicks hatched with thinnish patches of feathers on its hips and these have gradually got bigger. Now its back, shoulders and hips have some quite bald patches.
I've watched them for ages and they don't seem to be bullying this chick and it seems otherwise fine.
Can anyone advise me?
Thank you
Louise

[darkbrowneggs]

Sometimes the boys of the heavy breeds can be quite slow feathering up, and as they are growing quite quickly their backs and hips look a bit bare.  If this is the case with yours, then it will feather up when its ready.

All the best
Sue

Dark Brown Eggs

[Lou65]

Hi Sue

Thanks for your reply.

The chick is beginning to feather up already so I think you've probably hit the nail on the head!

Regards

Louise