Pecking, how do I stop this?

[CCsGarden]

You might want to switch to a higher protein feed but I can’t say for sure if that’s your issue because you aren’t really answering my questions. I’ve never moved a chicken into the house because it was molting even when it was freezing outside but I do know that re-introduction should be handled carefully because removing a chicken from the flock for more than a day can disturb the pecking order. It sounds like you also added more birds after that which, again, would disturb the pecking order. “We know how big it should be” isn’t really an answer because I don’t know where you got that information. You also didn’t say what breeds you have. Some breeds are more docile and prone to being picked on and other tend to be bossy. I have spent more time asking questions than getting answers in trying help you so hopefully someone else can help.

I have had these same birds for almost 3 years. I did answer your question about the feed. Yes, breeds I have

feed I use is This one from TSC.
I have
3 buffs
4 Brahmas
3 Wyandottes

The coop is 8 ft. tall and 15-20ft. long and 10ft. wide If I remember right.
I have land and will be building a huge coop out there soon! I'm really excited about it!

 

[CCsGarden]

Maybe @Wyorp Rock will have an answer? What can I put on her?

 

[Bawkbok]

You might want to switch to a higher protein feed but I can’t say for sure if that’s your issue because you aren’t really answering my questions. I’ve never moved a chicken into the house because it was molting even when it was freezing outside but I do know that re-introduction should be handled carefully because removing a chicken from the flock for more than a day can disturb the pecking order. It sounds like you also added more birds after that which, again, would disturb the pecking order. “We know how big it should be” isn’t really an answer because I don’t know where you got that information. You also didn’t say what breeds you have. Some breeds are more docile and prone to being picked on and other tend to be bossy. I have spent more time asking questions than getting answers in trying help you so hopefully someone else can help.

Read post #9 for the breeds indicated

 

[CCsGarden]

Read post #9 for the breeds indicated

Do you know what I could put on her? I heard blue coat might not be the best.

 

[Bawkbok]

If you're looking for something to keep her bottom moist to help with healing you can use Manuka honey - can be purchased at most grocery stores. It has healing properties although I think any honey might do. Her skin looks pretty raw although I don't see any blood.

If you're looking to stop the others from pecking her, unfortunately, I think the best thing is to separate her so they don't get to her. Can you put her in a small crate inside the run so she can be with her buddies? She would also get fresh air and sunshine this way.

If you have one offending bird doing the plucking / pecking, you can get some pinless peepers off Amazon. There is also an article on this site that goes into detail about them. I can't locate the link right off but search in the articles tab and you should find it. I haven't used them but others here have and use them in bullying situations. They fit on the nose of the offender and it distorts their vision somehow to keep them from pecking others.

The photo doesn't depict new pin feathers coming in unless that won't happen until fall. My girls haven't gone through a hard molt yet, so I can't really speak to that experience.

Wishing the best for her and your situation.

 

[CCsGarden]

If you're looking for something to keep her bottom moist to help with healing you can use Manuka honey - can be purchased at most grocery stores. It has healing properties although I think any honey might do. Her skin looks pretty raw although I don't see any blood.

If you're looking to stop the others from pecking her, unfortunately, I think the best thing is to separate her so they don't get to her. Can you put her in a small crate inside the run so she can be with her buddies? She would also get fresh air and sunshine this way.

If you have one offending bird doing the plucking / pecking, you can get some pinless peepers off Amazon. There is also an article on this site that goes into detail about them. I can't locate the link right off but search in the articles tab and you should find it. I haven't used them but others here have and use them in bullying situations. They fit on the nose of the offender and it distorts their vision somehow to keep them from pecking others.

The photo doesn't depict new pin feathers coming in unless that won't happen until fall. My girls haven't gone through a hard molt yet, so I can't really speak to that experience.

Wishing the best for her and your situation.

Thank you so much for this awesome reply! Yes, right now I have her inside. I think I'll go ahead and try to make an area for her in the coop. I'll try the honey too. I only noticed a few pin feathers. all the others seem fine and I'll have to keep an eye to see who's pecking at her. She does act like a rooster at times. Could this also make the hens want to peck that area?

 

[Bawkbok]

Chickens are attracted to blood. If one pecks her and gets away with it the others may do the same so that's why the suggestion to keep her separated but with them. Re-introduction will need to be monitored.

If you offer them a lot of treats, I would back off that. Also, you may need to increase the protein amount in their feed. Many people here feed an All Flock, 20% protein and the flocks seem to do well on this or at least 18% protein. Most layer feeds are only 16% protein. You don't need to feed layer feed at all. If you offer oyster shell and grit on the side they will take what they need for the vitamins to lay.

 

[CCsGarden]

Chickens are attracted to blood. If one pecks her and gets away with it the others may do the same so that's why the suggestion to keep her separated but with them. Re-introduction will need to be monitored.

If you offer them a lot of treats, I would back off that. Also, you may need to increase the protein amount in their feed. Many people here feed an All Flock, 20% protein and the flocks seem to do well on this or at least 18% protein. Most layer feeds are only 16% protein. You don't need to feed layer feed at all. If you offer oyster shell and grit on the side they will take what they need for the vitamins to lay.

Thank you so much for your help! It means a lot to me!