Chickens pull their feathers out due to stress, boredom, nutritional deficiencies, or parasites, leading to a behavior known as feather plucking or self-mutilation.
Feather pulling in chickens is more than just a bad habit – it’s a cry for help. When chickens pluck their own feathers or peck at flockmates, they’re signaling something’s wrong in their environment, diet, or social structure.
What Is Feather Pecking in Chickens?
Feather pecking occurs when chickens consistently pull feathers from themselves or others. Unlike normal pecking order behavior, this is destructive and can lead to:
- Bald patches and skin injuries
- Increased stress in the flock
- Cannibalism in severe cases
Normal Pecking vs. Problem Pecking
All flocks establish a pecking order, but feather pulling goes beyond normal social hierarchy. Problem pecking is persistent and focused on feather removal rather than brief dominance displays.
Top 7 Reasons Chickens Pull Their Feathers
1. Nutritional Deficiencies
Chickens need 16-18% protein in their diet. When deficient in key nutrients, they may eat feathers to compensate:
| Nutrient | Role | Sources |
|---|---|---|
| Methionine | Essential amino acid for feather growth | Black oil sunflower seeds, fish meal |
| Sodium | Electrolyte balance | Electrolyte supplements, oyster shell |
| Protein | Feather structure | Mealworms, soybean meal |
2. External Parasites
Mites and lice cause intense itching. Chickens may overpreen or pull feathers trying to relieve discomfort. Regular parasite control is essential.
3. Overcrowding Stress
Chickens need 4 sq ft per bird in the coop and 10 sq ft in the run. Crowding leads to:
- Increased aggression
- Competition for resources
- Boredom-induced pecking
4. Boredom and Lack of Stimulation
Chickens are intelligent animals that need mental stimulation. Without it, they develop destructive habits like feather pulling. Try:
- Hanging cabbage heads for pecking
- Adding perches at different heights
- Providing dust bathing areas
5. Environmental Stressors
Common environmental triggers include:
- Excessive light (more than 16 hours daily)
- High temperatures without cooling options
- Sudden changes in routine or flock members
6. Genetic Predisposition
Some breeds are more prone to feather pecking, including:
- Leghorns
- Production Reds
- Other high-strung, active breeds
7. Molting Confusion
During molting season, chickens may overpreen or pick at loose feathers. This usually resolves as new feathers grow in.
How to Stop Feather Pulling
Immediate Solutions
- Isolate severely affected birds
- Apply anti-pecking sprays to bare areas
- Use pinless peepers to prevent pecking
Long-Term Prevention
- Increase protein to 20% during molting
- Provide multiple feeding stations
- Add enrichment like hanging treats
- Ensure proper ventilation and lighting
When to Seek Veterinary Help
Consult a poultry vet if:
- Bald spots show signs of infection
- Multiple birds are affected
- Behavior continues despite interventions
According to Grubbly Farms, feather pecking can become a learned behavior that spreads through the flock if not addressed promptly.
Myths About Feather Pulling
- Myth: Only roosters cause feather loss
Fact: Hens frequently pluck their own feathers - Myth: It’s always a sign of bullying
Fact: Many cases are self-inflicted due to stress - Myth: Feathers grow back immediately
Fact: Full regrowth can take 6-12 weeks
For more on chicken behavior, see our guide on why chickens follow their owners.