Ask the Experts August/September 2024
Feather Loss
I’m not sure what is going on with our hens. The photo shows the backside of one hen which is the worst of them all. I have 13, but not all have lost feathers at the vent. However, most have picked-at, thin, raised feathers on their back tail area. Someone mentioned mites. Any thoughts on what’s going on? Do I address this backside? If so, suggestions are appreciated.
If there are mites, are the eggs still okay to eat? Will they clear up by themselves or do I need to treat (have a plan for that)? How long would it take to see feathers return to normal? Thanks,
W.P.
This can be caused by a variety of reasons, including mites, parasites, vent gleet, or even stress. If you have a vet willing to look at a couple of your hens, I suggest a visit to sort out what the problem is and the best course of action. Best of luck,
Audra
Egg Freshness
I’ve had eggs in my refrigerator for two months. Are they still good?
Cindy Syson
If they were collected fresh from your own hens and left unwashed, yes, they’re still good. Fresh, unwashed eggs are good for 3 to 6 months if stored in the refrigerator. After three months, we usually crack the egg in a separate, small bowl to ensure it’s good before adding it to anything.
If you’d like to check the freshness of eggs, here are some suggestions: www.BackyardPoultry.IAmCountryside. com/Eggs-Meat/3-Egg-Freshness-Tests/
Audra and Ana
Duck Wings Clipped
I clipped my four ducks’ wings over a year ago. Three of the ducks’ feathers grew back beautifully. The fourth duck’s feathers only grow so far, and they look like bones.
We feed good food, they have a large area to forage in, and they get peas or watermelon to eat. We or our neighbors don’t use poison. She’s laying and acting normal.
Diane Roberson
Sometimes when you clip wings you can damage the feather follicles, and this can stunt or prevent regrowth. Feathers take a lot of protein and energy to regrow. It’s good that the other ducks regrew theirs and that you have them on good feed, so that’s probably not the issue with this duck. If she’s laying well and seems active and you have a good way to protect her from predators, she should still live a long and happy life despite the feathers. I hope this helps! Ana
Originally published in the August/September 2024 issue of Backyard Poultry and regularly vetted for accuracy.
