Molting Chickens? Here’s How to Help
- Strong Animals Team
- Oct 6, 2022
- 4 min read
Updated: Nov 6
You walk into your backyard, and it looks like your chickens went on an intense weight-loss journey. Feathers are everywhere and your hens look skinny and sickly without the full breadth of their beautiful feathers. Don’t panic, your flock is fine, they’re just molting!
What is Molting in Chickens?
When chickens lose and re-grow feathers it’s called molting and it usually starts when a hen is around 18 months old. It occurs every year when the days get shorter.
Molting is a necessary natural process where chickens lose old, broken, worn out and soiled feathers for new feathers or plumage. These new feathers provide protection for the elements, insulation and give your hens their beautiful colors and patterns.
During the molt, hens typically stop laying eggs and use this time to build up their nutrient reserves.
When Do Chickens Molt and How Long Does it Last?
Most chickens molt in the autumn months when the hours of sunlight decrease. It is a good time for the birds to prepare for winter when quality feathers are essential. Don’t be alarmed if some hens go against the norm and molt in summer.
Every bird is different but molting typically lasts for 8–12 weeks. Also, don’t expect all your hens to molt at the same time. Older hens seem to take a bit longer to grow their feathers back and can molt for 13–16 weeks.
What Happens When Chickens Molt?
Shortly before a chicken begins molting, their feathers may start to appear more dull than normal. Once the molting process begins in a chicken, the new feathers will slowly begin to push out the old feathers, leaving small patches of missing feathers. This usually begins on the head and neck area and works towards the tail.
Did you know that feathers are made of 80-85 percent protein? Meaning, molting requires large amounts of protein for a chicken to grow new feathers. When you notice your chickens are losing their feathers, it is recommended to increase the amount of protein, probiotics, prebiotics and key vitamins and minerals in their diet.
Unfortunately, losing feathers and growing new ones can be a bit painful and stressful for a chicken. All chickens handle it differently. Some will act normal while others might become more aggressive and develop mood issues. The best thing to do is to take steps to help get them through their molt.
How to Care for Your Chickens When Molting:
Below are some simple, easy ways to help your flock through molting season.
Eliminate stress: Provide a safe, calm environment and try to avoid stressful events like adding new birds or deep-cleaning the coop right now. If you notice pecking or bullying, separate the birds being picked on. This is also a good time to use Bye-Bye, Boo-Boos to soothe and protect any bare or irritated skin while feathers grow back.
Up their protein intake: New feathers (pin feathers) are made mostly of protein, so your flock will need more of it. Look for a higher protein feed at your local farm supply store, or supplement with scrambled eggs, mealworms or sunflower seeds. Happy Tract is a great option here! It includes sunflower seeds and fiber-rich ingredients that support gut health while giving your birds an extra protein boost during molting.
Limit or avoid handling: It can be painful to grow new feathers. These new feathers called pin feathers are full of blood. If they break or are injured in some way, this can lead to other problems like pecking from other chickens or infection. It is best to avoid handling them.
Provide fresh, clean water: Make sure your flock always has access to clean, fresh water during molting. Hydration is essential for feather growth and overall recovery. Adding Flock Fixer to the water can give an extra boost when they need it most. It’s a non-medicated, fast-acting water additive with prebiotics, probiotics, electrolytes, vitamins and oregano essential oils to help support hydration, restore essential nutrients and keep their immune system strong through molting.
So, next time you see a feather-covered backyard, don't be alarmed! Instead, take a moment to appreciate this natural cycle of renewal, and give your chickens the care they need to emerge healthier and more beautiful than ever. Remember, a little extra love and care during molting can make all the difference for your flock!
Until next time,
The Wing Lady
Flock Fixer - Hydrate & Restore Health During Times of Challenge
You can’t always see it, but your flock will experience a weakened immune system during times of challenge. Flock Fixer is a vitamin-rich additive that helps hydrate, restore vital nutrients and balance digestive health.
Bye-Bye, Boo-Boos - Wound Care Spray for Chickens
Bye-Bye, Boo-Boos is a safe and natural way to soothe and mend wounds, cuts, scrapes and abrasions for your flock. It contains organic lavender, tea tree essential oils and vitamin E to aid healing and protection from infection.
Happy Tract - For Digestive Health & Immunity
Happy Tract is a daily chicken snack that promotes digestive health in your flock. It contains oregano, cinnamon and thyme essential oils, prebiotics, multi-grains, cracked corn and sunflower seeds. Treat your feathered friends to this healthy snack.
