Feather pecking

[Bestdogdash]

Hi Hen Peeps

One of my hens has now large bald reason both of her thighs. The feathers on her back are also badly damaged. I have been really puzzled. I have six hens, no cock, and they are completely free range all day - they have the whole Peak District to wonder in should they so wish. There is no sign of mites anywhere on her, in the house, on any of the others. I have been spraying with purple spray. I am rigorous in cleanliness and Smite the house for Britain.

This morning I saw two others basically plucking her in these areas. Does anyone know why ? Do you think they can see some sort of mite and are trying to eat them ? What can I do to discourage this behaviour ? She is a middle ranking hen, not bottom of the pecking order by any means, but the 'peckers' are both the 'boss' hens.

Any help/suggestions appreciated !

 

[Honey08]

It's really difficult once they start. Purple spray combined with an anti peck spray sometimes helps, or sudacrem sometimes. Is she moulting? It's usually due to a bleeding sore or new feathers coming through.

They're horrid little beggars sometimes, aren't they!

 

[MotherOfChickens]

are they moulting? when new feathers come through, they have a hard protein case-others like to eat them! agree-purple spray and/or the anti peck stuff can work.