Understanding Your Chickens During Molting Season

Is your flock causing a bit of chaos when you step into your backyard, resembling a scene from the Royal Rumble of pillow fights? Don’t panic; your hens are simply undergoing their molting phase! That’s right, those fluffy beauties are shedding old feathers and sprouting new ones, which are composed of an impressive 80-85% protein. This means they require a protein-packed diet to regrow their luxurious plumage. Curious about molting?

 

What is Molting?

Molting is essentially your chickens’ version of a makeover. It begins with stylish changes starting from the head and neck, gradually moving down to the wings and tail. Here’s a fun tidbit: they will experience two mini molts before their significant annual molt! The first mini molt occurs when they’re just tiny chicks, around 6-8 days old, while the second takes place between 7-12 weeks, when they begin to show off their vibrant rooster feathers.

Molt Season and Its Effects

Prepare yourself—molt season is here, if it hasn’t already made its presence known in your coop! As the days shorten (cue the sad trombone), egg production dips, and feathers scatter as your hens shed their old attire. But don’t lose hope! With the arrival of spring and longer days, egg-laying will make a comeback.

 

Supporting Your Hens Through Molting

To assist your hens during this feather fiasco, consider enhancing their protein intake with a high-protein feed, such as Purina High Protein. They will appreciate the 19% protein goodness, featuring black soldier fly larvae and the Oyster Strong® System. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, you might want to add some supplemental light to your coop to encourage egg production during the darker months.

It’s also important to avoid changing their living arrangements or introducing new companions during this sensitive time. Keeping stress levels low is crucial, so consider providing a Flock Block or the new Farm To Flock Block for added enjoyment!

So, while your feathered friends may appear a bit down during molting, rest assured it’s merely a part of their natural beauty regimen!