Can anyone tell me if this is a part of moulting?

[SamAbramian]

HI there, my 1yr old chickens haven't been laying for two months now which could be due to the weather and a pest (which has now been dealt with). Two of them have also been moulting but they all seem to have feathers missing on their necks. I've included a picture below of my Rhode Island Red which shows the tips of the cartilage around the top of her neck and head. Is this normal or do they have a health problem?

 

[sourland]

Welcome to BYC - the hen pictured is still showing pin/blood feathers with their covering which will be shed as the feathers mature - totally normal. By the way she is not a RIR - very likely a Speckled Sussex cross. She looks to be in good condition and about a month or so away from return to egg laying.

 

[SamAbramian]

Thanks so much for replying! I am a little surprised she is a cross breed, though her feathers have changed over the last year. I'm glad you think they're in good condition too, I hope egg laying returns in a month. Thanks again