Help Red is pecking and eating feathers

[dozey1]

Can any one help please one of my battery hens is pecking and eating my other girls feathers.they aren't bored, i just don't know what to do.

[MaureenHall]

I've heard that feather eating is a sign of calcium deficiency (don't know whether it's true or not) but ex-batts do need extra calcium in their diet due to the stressful and hard-working conditions they've been kept in. A lot of feather pecking also goes on when they're in captivity so it might be a habit that needs breaking. As long as she isn't drawing blood on the others, then I wouldn't worry too much. Give them all some Poultry Spice in their food and hang cabbages or other greens up so she can peck those instead. Also make sure they've got some grit and shell to peck at. Good luck and let us know how she's getting on

[dozey1]

Thanks Maureen, i have also read somewhere it might be due to lack of protein, any suggestions on what i can give them for extra calcium and protein?

[Suechooks]

If they're on a layers food there should be enough protein for their needs. As Maureen has said it's a habit they have from the cage and should resolve itself. If htey have some toys it can help - logs, tyres, something to scrat in like dead leaves or straw etc just to take their minds off feathers!
If you want a protein treat, a few dried meal worms are good - you could throw them down in straw or leaves. For calcium someone recommended limestone flour - from horsey places or ebay - I give mine a bit of that occasionally.
You could also get an anti-peck spray from pet shop or I think there's one called Ukadex or someething which is for hens. The pet shop one is for parrots etc and I've used it succesfully

[HayleyB]

Give her something else to peck that'll keep them busy like whole cabbage. There is something that you can put on feathers to stop it not sure what it is though.

[hawthorns]

we have had major problems with feather pecking and bullying. tried alsorts of things but we are now trying bumper bits.

[Hans Mum]

we have had major problems with feather pecking and bullying. tried alsorts of things but we are now trying bumper bits.

what are bumper bits

[Suechooks]

what are bumper bits

Think they're the rings they put on beaks to try and stop pecking. They also inhibit feeding a bit so need to be used with care I believe - never tried them but read about them here and there!

[hawthorns]

Omlet UK • View topic - Bumper Bits - the definitive "How to" guide this link will explain. its the only thing that has worked for us

[dozey1]

Thanks everyone

I have just ordered Feathrite, i already give them meal worms, i think it probably a dad habit picked up in the cages. I can't thank you all enough i will try everything first before i use the clips but i will if i have too. Will let you know how i get on.