What should I do if my chicken has bald patches? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your chicken has bald patches, the most common reasons are moulting, feather pecking, parasites, or rubbing from housing and equipment. It doesn't always mean something serious, but it's worth checking carefully so you can spot whether it's a normal seasonal change or something that needs attention.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the feather loss is patchy or more even, and whether it seems to be spreading.
2. Look for broken feathers, peck marks, scabs, redness, swelling or any raw skin.
3. Part the feathers around the vent, under the wings and along the back to look for mites or lice.
4. Check the coop, perches and nesting areas for signs of red mite, damp bedding or rough edges.
5. Think about whether there have been changes in the flock, stress, overcrowding or bullying.
6. Note whether your chicken is moulting, which can cause feather loss at certain times of year.
7. Watch for changes in behaviour, appetite, scratching or reduced egg laying.
Common Causes
Moulting is one of the most common causes and often happens seasonally as old feathers are replaced.
Feather pecking from other birds can also leave bald areas, especially if the flock is cramped, bored or unsettled.
External parasites such as lice or mites may cause irritation and feather damage, and sometimes you might see the birds scratching more than usual.
Less commonly, bald patches can come from rubbing against housing, feeders or tight spots, or from an underlying health issue that needs a vet's input.
What To Do
Start by checking the bird and the whole flock carefully so you can work out whether the loss looks like normal moulting or something more likely to be related to irritation or pecking.
Improve basic flock management where needed. Make sure there's enough space, perches, feeder access and enrichment to reduce stress and bullying.
Keep the coop clean, dry and well ventilated, and look for anything sharp, rough or overcrowded that could be contributing to feather damage.
If you spot signs of parasites, treat the environment and birds in line with veterinary or reputable poultry guidance, and keep monitoring the flock closely.
If the skin looks sore, the bird seems unwell, or the bald patches are getting worse, contact a vet for advice.
Related Questions
Is my chicken moulting or losing feathers because of pecking?
How do I check chickens for lice or mites?
Why is my chicken scratching more than usual?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.