🐔 Why Are My Chickens Feather Pecking? Understanding and Managing Feather Pecking in Your Flock

If you’ve noticed your hens picking at each other’s feathers like it’s the latest coop fashion trend, you’re probably wondering: What’s up with that? Feather pecking is a common—but frustrating—behavior in chickens that can sometimes cause stress, injury, and drama in your flock.

Don’t worry! We’re here to help you understand why your chickens are feather pecking and what you can do to keep your girls happy, healthy, and looking fabulous.

What Is Feather Pecking?

Feather pecking is when one chicken pecks or pulls at the feathers of another. It’s different from normal grooming or preening and can range from gentle picking to aggressive, damaging pecks that cause bald spots or even wounds.

Why Do Chickens Feather Peck?

Here are some common reasons why your hens might be playing the pecking game a little too hard:

1. Boredom and Lack of Enrichment

Chickens are smart and curious. If they don’t have enough things to do, they may start pecking each other out of sheer boredom.

2. Overcrowding

Too many hens in a small space means stress and less personal space—which can lead to feather pecking as a way to assert dominance or release tension.

3. Nutritional Deficiencies

If your hens aren’t getting enough protein, vitamins, or minerals, they might peck feathers to supplement their diet (weird, but true!).

4. Stress or Environmental Factors

Sudden changes, predators nearby, or noisy disturbances can trigger feather pecking as a stress response.

5. Establishing Pecking Order

Chickens naturally set up a social hierarchy, and sometimes feather pecking is part of this process—though it shouldn’t become aggressive.

How to Stop Feather Pecking

Don’t worry—you can take steps to nip feather pecking in the bud!

✅ Provide Plenty of Space

Aim for at least 4 square feet per chicken inside the coop and 8-10 square feet in the run to keep stress levels down.

✅ Keep Them Busy

Add treats, hanging veggies, dust baths, and toys to keep their beaks and minds occupied.

✅ Feed a Balanced Diet

Make sure your hens get high-quality layer feed with enough protein and supplements if needed.

✅ Reduce Stressors

Keep predators away, avoid sudden changes, and create a calm environment.

✅ Use Distractions

Hanging cabbage or corn cobs can redirect their pecking energy onto tasty treats instead of feathers.

✅ Separate Aggressive Birds

If one chicken is particularly mean, give her a timeout until the pecking calms down.

When to Call the Vet

If feather pecking leads to bloody wounds, infections, or extreme feather loss, it’s time to get some professional help. Your vet can recommend treatments or supplements to help your flock heal.

Fun Fact! 🐔

Some chicken breeds are naturally calmer and less prone to feather pecking—like Silkies and Cochins—while others, like Leghorns, tend to be a bit more feisty.

Final Cluck

Feather pecking might be annoying, but with a little care and creativity, you can keep your flock looking their best and feeling happy. Remember: a busy, well-fed, and stress-free chicken is a friendly chicken!

Got feather pecking stories or tips? Share your flock’s antics with us!

Happy pecking (the good kind)! 🐓💕

— The Chook Manor Team