Find Amazing chicken keeping supplies like hemp seeds and grubs from Eaton Pet and Pasture at [ Ссылка ] apply code earthnailsandtails for 20% off your first order!
Read for more on molting⬇️🐓
Chickens molt for various reasons, and supporting them during this natural process is essential for their well-being. Here are some key points on when and why chickens molt and how you can assist them:
When and Why Chickens Molt:
* Timing: Chickens typically molt once a year, usually in the fall or winter. However, the timing can vary among individual birds.
* Natural Renewal: Molting is a natural process for chickens, allowing them to shed and replace old feathers. New feathers help maintain insulation and overall health.
* Environmental Triggers: Factors such as decreasing daylight hours and temperature changes can signal to chickens that it's time to molt.
* Stress or Illness: Chickens may molt due to stress or illness, which can be more unpredictable and occur at any time of the year. If it’s happening outside of the normal period it’s time to take action and potentially seek a vet.
* Egg Production Pause: During molting, hens often reduce or even cease egg production as their energy is redirected towards feather regeneration.
How to Help Chickens During Molting:
* Nutrition: Provide a balanced and protein-rich diet. Feathers are primarily composed of protein, so a diet high in quality protein, vitamins and minerals such as a layer feed with around 16-18% protein, is essential.
* Supplements: Consider adding supplements like black oil sunflower seeds or hemp seeds and grubs from our friends @eatonpetandoasture to boost their protein, fat and vitamin and mineral intake.
* Increased Calories: Molting chickens require additional calories to support feather growth. Corn and grains can be added to their diet, but ensure it doesn't replace their primary feed. These can be especially helpful on cold days when the are missing the warmth of their feathers.
* Adequate Shelter: Ensure chickens have a well-insulated, draft-free coop to protect them during colder months when they are more vulnerable without full plumage.
* Dust Baths: Provide a dust bath for chickens to help them remove old feathers, keep their skin and new feathers clean and free from parasites, pests and mites.
* Gentle Handling: Be gentle when handling chickens during molting as they may be more sensitive. Avoid pulling on loose feathers or handling them in general if possible.
* Regular Checkups: Monitor your birds for signs of illness, and consult a veterinarian if you suspect any health issues during molt.
* Patience: Understand that molting can be a stressful time for chickens. It's essential to be patient and allow them the time they need to complete the process, which can take several weeks. Let them go through their natural and necessary process. Stay away from adding lights to the coop which disturbs their naturally rhythm. They work hard all year giving us eggs and they deserve some time to recover themselves.
.
.
.
#happychickens #backyardchickens #chickens #raisingchickens #hens #hensofinstagram #petchickens #backyardchicken #chickensofinsta #backyardhomestead #chickenkeeping
#backyardhomesteading #eatonway #molting #moltingseason
