bald headed chickens

[chickadoodle]

Two of my black rock hens have gone bald on their heads and under their chin! Initially, I thought it was due to cockerel treading and pecking them, however, he has been gone for 2 months and there is no sign of regrowth. They are still laying and seem happy. I have not noticed scratching and they are the two most dominant of the eleven I have. I did rehome 4 hens a few months ago, but other than a huge moult by one, they are all laying and extremely happy. I have managed to take a few photos of the heads, but cannot get them loaded at the mo. Will try again tomorrow. Any ideas please ! All thoughts greatly appreciated. Thanks

 

[Tim]

Check for Mites - If they are scratching, their heads, it could be something like Northern Fowl Mites - especially around the ear canals.

Other than this, most common causes are poking their heads through a gap in the wire to get to grass or feather picking. Usually the hen with all her feathers is the culprit!

Feathers around there can take a while to regrow, to help, Calcified Seaweed (if you can find it) is very good and extra protein (dried Cat kibble crushed and fed) helps.