Is it normal for chickens to eat feathers?

Feathers are made of protein, so if a bird is suffering from a protein deficiency, it can turn to feather pecking and eating the feathers as a source of much-needed protein.

How do you stop chickens from eating feathers?

Feather eating commonly happens when chickens are overcrowded, bored or hot. Chickens kept in confined quarters peck one another more frequently than those who have access to free range where they can nibble plants and scratch for bugs.

Why does my chicken eat its own feathers?

Another flock boredom-buster is a block for hens to peck, like the Purinaxae Flock Blocku2122. You can simply place this block in the coop for hens to peck. The block can be a fun experience for hens and prevent flock boredom when they are spending more time in the coop.

Is it OK for chickens to eat feathers?

If you catch your chickens eating feathers it might mean that they are lacking protein. When chickens molt we give them extra protein to help them grow new feathers. Thus, hinting at the fact that feathers contain protein.

What causes chickens to eat their feathers?

Cannibalism has been linked to deficiencies in protein, sodium, and phosphorus. Extremely high-energy and low-fiber diets cause the birds to be active and aggressive. Feed lacking protein and other nutrients, particularly the amino acid methionine, will also cause birds to pick feathers.

How do you stop chickens from pecking their chickens feathers?

Another flock boredom-buster is a block for hens to peck, like the Purinaxae Flock Blocku2122. You can simply place this block in the coop for hens to peck. The block can be a fun experience for hens and prevent flock boredom when they are spending more time in the coop.