Poultry 101 Feather Forecast

Egg Production During This Transition

Don ' t expect eggs from molting hens. Most reduce or stop laying during this time; feather growth demands protein and energy, so the body redirects resources away from egg production.

This laying break benefits birds by allowing them to rebuild nutrient stores. Many keepers notice stronger, more consistent laying after molt. Rather than using artificial light, let your birds rest to support their natural cycle.

Duration: How Long Will It Last?

This duration period varies. Some efficient molters finish in 6 to 8 weeks, while others may take several months. Older birds typically experience longer periods.

Watch for these concerning signs:

• Persistent lethargy

• Not eating or drinking

• Bare areas without new feather growth after weeks

• Signs of external parasites If you spot these issues, consult a poultry veterinarian.

Nutrition: Feeding Birds Through Molt

Feathers are about 85 % to 90 % protein, so quality nutrition is crucial. A high-protein diet helps birds regrow feathers efficiently.

Feeding strategy:

• Switch to higher-protein all-flock or grower feed( reduce excess calcium)

• Offer oyster shells for layers to self-regulate calcium

• Provide high-protein treats( limit to 10 % of diet), such as unsalted sunflower seeds, peas, cooked meat or fish and dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae. Treats should complement, not replace, complete feed.

Managing Stress and Comfort

Beyond nutrition, environment matters. Stress reduction is key since molting taxes their immune system and energy. The owner of Cluck It All Farms, Tina Hines, tells AcreageLife that most molt advice stops at“ more protein.”

“ The part no one talks about is keeping birds busy, so they don ' t start picking. Pin feathers are tender, and they stick out like targets, so we give beaks better work:

When the hens have ways to stay busy, tempers settle, pecking slows and new feathers get a chance to finish growing. hang leafy greens at beak height, create a scratchto-find zone in deep litter, refresh the dust bath and add simple visual breaks so a picked bird can step out of view. Aim for two enrichment stations per 10 hens and swap them every other day," Hines explains.

What to Expect: Real Coop Experiences

Every flock and every bird handles molt differently. Some show dramatic feather loss and seem withdrawn, while others are barely affected. Patterns vary by breed, age and health.

Remember, this stage is temporary. Within weeks or months, your flock will refurbish their feathers and look sleek and healthy, ready for cold weather.

Supporting Your Flock ' s Natural Cycle

Molting showcases nature’ s renewal power. Support your flock with good nutrition, a calm environment and patience. Avoid dramatic changes and let them focus on recovery.

This brief but challenging period prepares your hens for winter and better egg production moving forward. Soon, you ' ll admire glossy new plumage and collect eggs from rejuvenated, healthy birds.

Tips for a comfortable molt:

• Minimize handling.

• Keep bedding clean and dry.

• Offer multiple feeders to reduce competition.

• Provide visual barriers for vulnerable birds.

• Ensure dust bathing areas are available.

• Avoid major changes during molt.

• Maintain ventilation without drafts.

• Provide enough roosting and resting space.

• Watch for bullying and separate aggressive birds if necessary.

• Further reading: 50-Do-it-Yourself Projects for Keeping Chickens by Janet Garman – you’ re goto for budget-friendly builds that support flock health, including during molting.

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10 AcreageLife October 2025 AcreageLife. com