19 week old losing tail feathers?

[chickieandpeeps]

My 19 week old Lavender Marans has lost tail feathers over the past couple days. She is down to two long feathers. Her sister, same breed and age, has a full tail.

She has always been a slow developer compared to her sister, so I’m wondering if this is a late juvenile molt. There was a time when her sister had a full tail and I was convinced she was rumpless, but she eventually sprouted a tail. My flock gets along well, and I haven’t noticed bullying. Any thoughts? Thanks!

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

They don't generally molt out the tail feathers when younger. Are they confined or free range? Sometimes they can lose tail feathers if they are frightened and grabbed by the feathers.

 

[aart]

She has always been a slow developer compared to her sister, so I’m wondering if this is a late juvenile molt.

Could be, look for pin feathers coming in.