Chickens may have bald spots due to pecking order issues, parasites like mites, molting, or nutritional deficiencies affecting feather health.
Bald spots on chickens can alarm any poultry keeper. These patches may appear suddenly or develop over time, leaving you wondering what’s wrong with your flock. The good news? Most causes are treatable once identified.
Common Causes of Bald Spots in Chickens
1. Molting: The Natural Feather Cycle
Chickens molt annually, typically in autumn as daylight decreases. During this natural process:
- Feathers shed in a specific pattern from head to tail
- New pin feathers emerge with visible blood veins
- Egg production often stops temporarily
Some hens experience “hard molts” where they lose most feathers at once, while others have gradual feather loss. Learn more about tail feather loss here.
2. Rooster Over-Mating
Active roosters can cause:
| Sign | Solution |
|---|---|
| Bald spots on hen’s back and wings | Use chicken saddles for protection |
| Broken skin or bleeding | Separate injured hens temporarily |
3. Feather Pecking (Cannibalism)
Chickens may peck each other due to:
- Overcrowding (less than 4 sq ft per bird)
- Nutritional deficiencies (especially protein)
- Boredom or stress
One study by the Poultry Science Association found feather pecking increases by 300% in overcrowded conditions.
4. Parasites: Mites and Lice
External parasites cause intense itching, leading to:
- Feather pulling (by themselves or flockmates)
- Visible bugs at feather bases
- White lice eggs on feather shafts
Regular parasite prevention is crucial for healthy feathers.
Less Common But Serious Causes
5. Broodiness-Related Feather Loss
Broody hens pluck their own breast feathers to:
- Create direct skin contact with eggs
- Regulate egg temperature better
Post-broodiness, they often molt heavily as hormones normalize.
6. Nutritional Deficiencies
Key nutrients for feather health:
- Protein (18-20% during molt)
- Biotin (found in eggs and legumes)
- Methionine (essential amino acid)
According to Penn State Extension, feather regrowth requires 85% of a chicken’s protein intake.
Treatment and Prevention
Immediate Actions for Injured Birds
- Isolate pecked birds to prevent further injury
- Clean wounds with saline solution
- Apply poultry-safe antiseptic spray
Long-Term Solutions
For persistent feather loss:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Overcrowding | Expand coop space (minimum 4 sq ft/bird inside, 10 sq ft outside) |
| Nutritional gaps | Switch to higher-protein feed (20% during molt) |
| Boredom | Add hanging treats, dust baths, and perches |
When to Consult a Vet
Seek professional help if you notice:
- Persistent bleeding that won’t stop
- Signs of infection (swelling, pus)
- Multiple birds with severe feather loss
With proper care, most chickens regrow feathers within 4-6 weeks. Monitor your flock closely and address any pecking behavior immediately to prevent escalation.