At what age do chickens molt?

[sovia]

If anyone could tell me at what age chickens molt, I would really appreciate it. My flock is only 6 months old, but several appear to be molting. Is this normal?

 

[sovia]

Oops - so sorry. I accidentally posted this twice and don't know how to delete the other!

 

[chickenlady]

depending on when they were born, sure a six month old can molt. It usually happens in fall when the daylight is getting shorter.

 

[chickenlady]

Looks like I double posted too, lol

 

[sovia]

Thanks, chickenlady. I thought they had to be around 18 months old and I was a little concerned.

 

[chickenlady]

Normally it would be later. I did have one molt at 9 months old. Does your show any other symptoms? Is anyone maybe picking at her? What are you feeding her? Maybe we should weed everything out to try and make sure what you are seeing is a molt.

 

[sovia]

They are eating Purina Layena and a few treats here and there. I have examined them for mites/etc., but can't find anything.

 

[chickenlady]

If you see no mites/lice, that is a good sign. Check for new feather growth and keep an eye out for any bad symptoms that may arise. Sounds like she might just be an early molter.

 

[chickenlady]

If you see no mites/lice, that is a good sign. Check for new feather growth and keep an eye out for any bad symptoms that may arise. Sounds like she might just be an early molter.