My pullets are 12 weeks old and I've noticed a lot of feathers around, and the chickens actually eating quite a few. They also seem to be pretty "flaky". We are still not used to the dry climate out here so I thought that they might just have dry skin? I know they go through feather "growth spurts" at times but I am a little concerned with the heat and their growth rate, maybe they are not getting enough protein?? I have checked them so often for lice/mites that they are starting to avoid me! Should I supplement their chick starter (18% protein) with an additional protein source or maybe switch them to a higher protein "flockraiser"? They used to get a handful (one) of oats thrown in the run every morning by my kids, but I stopped them for fear they weren't getting enough of their feed. Any opinions out there? I greatly appreciate any feedback!
Carrie
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