To put pinless peepers on chickens, gently restrain the bird, insert the peeper through the nostrils, and secure it behind the head without causing distress.
Pinless peepers are a humane solution for chickens that peck feathers, eat eggs, or bully flockmates. These plastic blinders attach to the nostrils without pins, limiting forward vision to reduce aggressive behavior. Proper application is crucial for effectiveness and chicken comfort.
What You’ll Need for Application
- Pinless peepers (correct size for your chickens)
- Snap ring pliers (7-inch curved tip works best)
- Warm water bowl (120°F ideal for softening plastic)
- Towel or cut-off sweatpants leg for restraint
- Cotton swabs (for potential nostril cleaning later)
Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Prepare the Equipment
Soak peepers in warm water for 3-5 minutes to make them pliable. Dry thoroughly before application to prevent water inhalation. Test your pliers on a spare peeper to understand the tension needed.
2. Restrain Your Chicken
Wrap the chicken snugly in a towel or fabric tube, leaving the head exposed. For difficult birds, try the “sweatpants leg” method – insert the chicken feet-first into a cut-off pantleg with the cuff opening at the head.
3. Position the Pliers
Insert plier tips between the nostril pieces and the beak bridge. Squeeze gently to widen the opening about 1/4 inch – just enough to fit over the nostrils. Over-stretching can weaken the plastic.
4. Apply to Nostrils
With the chicken’s head steady, approach from above. Slide one nostril piece into place, then the other. Release pliers slowly as you withdraw them upward. The peepers should snap securely onto the nostrils without pinching.
5. Post-Application Care
Expect initial head shaking and sneezing. Provide wide, shallow dishes for food and water since depth perception is affected. Monitor for 30 minutes to ensure proper adjustment.
Common Challenges and Solutions
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Peeper falls off | Reapply at slight angle or try smaller size |
| Nostril irritation | Remove and clean area with saline solution |
| Flockmates pecking | Usually stops within 48 hours |
| Eating difficulties | Use flat feeders instead of tube designs |
Duration and Removal
Limit use to 2 weeks maximum. For removal, use the same plier technique in reverse. Clean any nostril buildup with warm water on a cotton swab. If pecking resumes, wait 1 week before reapplying.
Alternative Solutions
Before using peepers, try these methods:
- Increase coop space (minimum 4 sq ft per bird)
- Add chicken toys for enrichment
- Apply anti-pecking sprays
- Separate aggressive birds temporarily
Where to Buy Quality Pinless Peepers
Purchase from reputable suppliers like McMurray Hatchery. For small breeds, look for bantam-sized peepers. Standard sizes fit most Rhode Island Reds and similar breeds.
Behavioral Considerations
Chickens rely on pecking order to maintain social structure. While peepers stop harmful pecking, they don’t address underlying causes like overcrowding or nutritional deficiencies. Consider long-term solutions for persistent issues.
Safety Precautions
- Never leave peepers on molting chickens
- Avoid use in extreme heat (over 90°F)
- Check nostrils daily for irritation
- Remove immediately if breathing difficulties occur