Pinless Peepers For Chickens: Why, How, and When To Use?

Significantly fewer poultry raisers know about pinless peepers for chickens. They are also popularly called chicken blinders and spectacles.

Feather pecking among chickens can be a significant issue for backyard poultry keepers and commercial farms. 

It can lead to stress, injury, and even cannibalism in severe cases. Painless peepers are a solution that can help curb this unwanted behavior. 

This article will discuss what pinless peepers are, their benefits, common concerns, the five best products, an installation guide, and other FAQs.

Also read: Know all about chicken bullying

What are Pinless Peepers?

Pinless peepers are small, plastic devices that attach to a chicken’s beak, preventing them from pecking at other chickens’ feathers. 

The device obstructs the bird’s forward vision, limiting its ability to target and retrieve feathers accurately. This disruption in the pecking behavior can help reduce the incidence of feather pecking and its associated issues.

The benefits of using pinless peepers for chickens are numerous. Not only do they effectively deter feather pecking, but they also promote a healthier and more harmonious environment for your flock. 

By reducing aggressive behavior, pinless peepers can help lower stress levels in your birds, leading to better overall health and productivity.

The Benefits of Using Pinless Peepers for Chickens

There are several advantages to using pinless peepers for chickens, some of which include the following:

1. Reduced feather pecking: Pinless peepers have been proven effective for reducing and eliminating feather pecking among chickens. By obstructing a chicken’s forward vision, the peepers make it difficult for them to peck at other birds’ feathers, reducing the likelihood of injury and related issues.
2. Improved flock health and productivity: Feather pecking can lead to stress, injury, and cannibalism. By reducing this behavior, pinless peepers can help promote a healthier and more harmonious environment for your flock. In addition, lower stress levels can lead to better overall health and productivity.
3. Non-invasive solution: Unlike other methods for managing feather pecking, such as debeaking, pinless peepers are a non-invasive and less stressful solution. The devices are easy to install and remove and do not threaten or annoy the bird.

Common Concerns: Are Pinless Peepers Cruel or Harmful?

There is often debate surrounding the use of pinless peepers and whether they are cruel or harmful to chickens. 

While some animal welfare organizations argue that pinless peepers are cruel and harmful, others believe they are necessary for protecting the birds from harm.

While they may look uncomfortable, it is essential to note that these devices are designed to be safe and cause minimal discomfort. Chickens can still eat, drink, and perform other necessary behaviors while wearing pinless peepers. 

The truth is that pinless peepers can be both beneficial and harmful depending on how they are used. 

When used correctly, pinless peepers can prevent hens from pecking each other and causing injury. However, improper placement or device use can cause discomfort, pain, and even blindness.

Furthermore, the benefits of reducing feather pecking and promoting a healthier flock far outweigh any potential discomfort.

Note: Pinless peepers must be used only as a last resort and with proper training and supervision to avoid harming the birds.

Top 5 Best Pinless Peepers For Chickens

This section will provide a detailed review of the top 5 best pinless peepers available on the market, including their product descriptions, pros, and cons.

1. DSSPORT Chicken Pheasant Blinders Spectacles or Pinless Peepers (Pack of 41) 

Last update on 2024-04-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Product Description: The DSSPORT Pheasant Blinders Spectacles prevent aggressive chickens from pecking or bullying other small chicks, eggs, and birds. 

These pinless peepers are easy to install and remove, allowing the chicken to move freely while preventing aggression.

The product dimensions. Red medium pinless peepers: approx. 2.17x 0.98 inches, Red small pinless peepers approx. 1.78x 1.06 inches, Anti-pecking glasses plier: approx. 6.7 inches.

They are suitable for chickens over 4.5 pounds. The spectacles are made of durable and non-toxic plastic, ensuring they are safe for the chicken to wear.

Pros:

• Helps prevent aggression and bullying among chickens.
• Easy to install and remove.
• Made of high-quality plastic
• Non-toxic and safe for the chicken to wear.
• Allows the chicken to move freely.

Cons:

1. It may not be effective for all types of aggressive behavior.
2. Not suitable for chickens under 4.5 pounds.
3. It may require monitoring to ensure the spectacles are not harming the chicken.

2. Lainrrew Chicken Blinders Spectacles Anti-Pecking Pheasant (Pack of 41 pieces)

Last update on 2024-04-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Product Description: The package includes 41 pieces of pinless peepers with pliers, which can prevent chickens from pecking at each other’s feathers, eggs, and toes and prevent bullying.

The glasses are made of high-quality plastic and are easy to install without harming the chickens.

The design of the glasses allows chickens to see forward and downward, but not sideways or behind them, which can help reduce aggressive behavior.

The glasses are suitable for a variety of poultry, including chickens, pheasants, and other birds. The size of the pinless peeper is 1.57” × 1.06”.

Pros:

• Prevents aggressive behavior in chickens.
• Reduce the risk of injury and death.
• Easy to install.

Cons:

• It doesn’t come with any instructions.
• Plastic quality needs improvement.

3. Aufind Chicken Blinders Spectacles Anti-Pecking Plier (Middle Size Pack of 101)

Last update on 2024-04-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Product Description: The Aufind Pinless Peepers are a great solution for poultry owners who want to prevent their birds from pecking at each other. These peepers are virgin polypropylene plastic, ensuring long life and durability.

It prevents feather pecking and cannibalism among your flock. These pinless peepers are durable and easy to install. 

They come in a pack of 101, making them an excellent choice for small and large flocks. The package also includes a specially designed-plier for easy installation and removal.

These pinless peepers are good for chickens weighing 1.1-4.5 lbs and roosters weighing under 3 lbs.

Pros:

• Prevents birds from picking at each other’s anus, toes, feathers, and eggs.
• Avoids bullying smaller and weak chickens.
• Made from high-quality, durable plastic.
• Comes with a plier tool for easy installation.
• Suitable for both small and large flocks.

Cons:

• It may be too large for smaller breeds of chickens.
• Customers are complaining about not working on highly aggressive roosters.

4. Weilan Chicken Pheasant Blinders Spectacles Anti-Pecking 

Last update on 2024-04-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Product Description: The Weilan Pheasant Blinders Spectacles Anti-Pecking Pinless Peepers are designed to prevent hens and other poultry birds from pecking each other. 

It is suitable for pheasants, chickens, caged hens, cockerel, hen, peacocks, etc. Made of high-quality polypropylene plastic material, these pinless peepers are durable and perfect for long-term use. 

They are easy to install and clip into the edge of the nostrils without causing pain or discomfort to the birds.

These pinless peepers are ideal for use in poultry farms and are reusable. The package includes 20 pcs of pinless peepers and a plier to install them easily.

Pros:

• Made of high-quality and durable polypropylene plastic material.
• Easy to install without causing any pain or discomfort to the birds.
• Ideal for preventing pecking and other aggressive behavior in poultry farms.
• Reusable and long-lasting.
• Comes with a plier for easy installation.
• It can be used for hens and other poultry birds.

Cons:

• Some users may find it difficult to install the peepers without proper guidance.
• May cause minor discomfort to the birds during the initial installation process.

5. Boao Chicken Pheasant Blinders Spectacles Anti-Pecking

Last update on 2024-04-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Product Description: The Boao Pinless Peepers are designed to prevent aggressive chickens from pecking each other, which can cause injury or even death. 

The pack includes 61 pieces of peepers along with pliers, making it easy to install on your birds. These peepers are made of high-quality imported raw materials and are reusable. 

The patented new design makes them more effective than traditional peepers. They are painless and simply clip onto the edge of the nostrils, making them safe for your poultry.

You can prevent your chicken from pecking hair, anus, toes, feathers, and eggs to avoid harming other smaller chickens or birds with these pinless peepers.

Pros:

• Helps prevent aggressive behavior in chickens.
• Comes with 61 pieces and pliers for easy installation.
• A patented new design makes them more effective than traditional peepers.
• Safe and painless for your poultry.

Cons:

• Plastic quality needs improvement.
• It may not be effective in all cases of aggressive behavior.

How to Properly Install Pinless Peepers on Your Chickens?

The installation of pinless peepers on chickens is a straightforward process that requires only a few simple steps.

1. First, gently hold your chicken (best if two persons do this) and locate the nostril holes on its beak.
2. Next, place the pinless peepers over the beak, securing them with the provided clip or plier.
3. Ensure that the peepers are snug but not too tight.
4. Observe your chicken for a few minutes to ensure they eat, drink, and usually behaves with the peepers on.

It is important to note that pinless peepers should only be used on mature birds at least 8–10 weeks old. This is because younger birds may still be developing and could be harmed by using peepers.

How long can you leave pinless peepers on?

Pinless Peepers are plastic blinders that prevent chickens from pecking or bullying other birds. They are harmless and can be used for both short and long-term purposes. 

Some chicken keepers prefer to leave them on permanently. It is generally recommended to leave the Pinless Peepers on for about six months and then remove them to observe the chicken’s behavior for a few weeks to see if the habit has been broken.

Pinless Peepers for Aggressive Roosters: Are They Effective?

Pinless peepers can also be effective in managing aggression among roosters. By obstructing their forward vision, peepers can reduce their tendency to attack other birds or humans. 

However, it is essential to note that pinless peepers should not be used as a substitute for proper flock management and socialization.

If you have an aggressive rooster, it is crucial to identify the root cause of their behavior and address it accordingly. 

This may involve separating the bird from the rest of the flock or implementing other management techniques, such as limiting their access to food or water.

Where to Buy Pinless Peepers? Local and Online Options

Pinless peepers can be purchased online through retailers like Amazon, Tractor Supply, and other farm supply stores. They may also be available at local feed stores or agricultural markets.

It is essential to choose a reputable retailer when purchasing pinless peepers to ensure that you are getting a high-quality, safe product. Be sure to read product reviews and compare prices before making a purchase.

Tips for Maintaining and Managing Pinless Peepers

Maintaining and managing pinless peepers is essential for ensuring their effectiveness and safety. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Regularly check the peepers for damage or wear and replace them as necessary.
2. Monitor your birds for discomfort or injury while wearing the peepers.
3. Clean the peepers regularly with a mild soap and water solution.
4. Do not leave the peepers on for extended periods; remove them if they are causing discomfort or injury.

Alternatives to Pinless Peepers: Other Methods for Managing Feather Pecking and Aggressive Roosters

While pinless peepers are effective for managing feather pecking and aggression in chickens, they are not the only solution. Other methods for addressing these issues include:

1. Providing ample space and resources for your birds to reduce stress and aggression.
2. Ensuring a balanced diet with adequate protein and nutrients.
3. Separating aggressive birds from the rest of the flock.
4. Implementing positive reinforcement training techniques to discourage unwanted behavior.

Final Thoughts on Using Pinless Peepers for Chickens

In conclusion, pinless peepers, blinders, or spectacles for chickens are essential for managing feather pecking and aggression in chickens.

They are a safe, effective, and non-invasive solution that can help promote a healthier and more harmonious flock. 

When used correctly and in conjunction with proper flock management techniques, pinless peepers for chickens can help ensure the well-being and productivity of your birds.