The Effect of Minor Nutrient Mineral Elements in the Diet of Chickens on Feather Pulling and Cannibalism

Abstract

FEATHER pulling, feather eating, and cannibalism are phases of a vice in chickens of all ages that is a serious problem in many poultry flocks. This vice detracts from the market appearance and tends to reduce the quality of broilers. In layers the loss of feather covering undoubtedly increases energy requirements for maintenance and egg production. Studies including both managemant and nutrition have been made in an attempt to find means for the prevention and control of this vice. While some reduction in feather pulling and cannibalism has been observed following certain changes in management and nutrition, a dependable solution for the problem has been lacking.Carver (1931) reported a reduction in feather picking among chickens in battery brooders and fattening batteries through the use of ruby-colored lights. Miller and Bearse (1937) reported a marked reduction in feather picking and cannibalism in birds to 40 weeks of age where whole .