Disease sheet · NEXTEKCI School
Feather pecking and cannibalism
vent pecking
Feather pecking is when birds pull out other birds’ feathers with their beaks; cannibalism is pecking that goes as far as serious injury and death. It is not a contagious disease but a behavioural disorder, almost always linked to housing conditions. Once established, it spreads quickly through the flock.
Type
non-infectious
Severity
moderate
Who is affected
Mainly layers and pullets; also coloured chickens.
Most affected age
Mainly during pullet rearing and at the start of lay.
Signs to look for
- •Feathers pulled out on the back and around the tail; feathers on the floor.
- •Birds running away and hiding.
- •Wounds, especially around the vent at the start of lay.
- •Injured birds chased by the others.
- •Eggs eaten in the nests.
How it spreads
- •Not contagious: it is a behaviour that spreads by imitation within the flock.
- •Stocking density too high, too few feeders or drinkers.
- •Light too bright, heat, boredom.
- •Unsuitable feed or a sudden change of feed.
- •Pullets brought into lay too early or too light; nests that are too bright.
Not to be confused with
- •Lice and mites (damaged feathers)
- •Natural moult (feather loss without injury)
- •Gumboro disease (vent pecking)
Prevention
- •Never overstock the house; enough feeders and drinkers for every bird.
- •Suitable lighting, not too bright; nests kept dim.
- •Feed suited to age, gradual changes.
- •Heat control; give the birds something to do (litter to scratch, outdoor run).
- •Only increase pullets’ light once target weight is reached.
What to do if you suspect it
- •Remove injured birds immediately and keep them apart until healed.
- •Look for the cause: light, density, feed, water, heat.
- •Collect eggs often; remove broken eggs.
- •Tell the vet in your area if it continues: only they decide on any treatment.
This sheet helps you recognise the disease and react quickly. It does not replace the veterinarian: only they can diagnose and prescribe a treatment. Worried about your flock? Write to us on WhatsApp at +225 05 44 83 27 79.