chickens are moulting - is this normal for november?

[tazzy]

My two-year-old chickens are moulting. Is this normal for this time of year? It's cold in november! I can't help but worry that they'll freeze with all their feathers falling out. But if that's a normal behavior for this time of year, I guess they'll be fine. But is it normal? They are losing a LOT of feathers! But not the new ones born this spring, just my older chickens and rooster.

Thanks!

 

[Guinea Goonie]

My roo blew ALL of his butt feathers a month or so back and now he has brand new ones to sport to the ladies.

He also molted out on his neck feathers, you could see the pins.

From what I understand it does not take a long time to replace a spot of feathers on birds.

Give them lots of protien while they molt and LOTS of fresh, clean water.

I always notice a whole lot more feathers in the barn during the fall period.

 

[lalaland]

yes, I have hens who moult in winter. try to provide extra heat if necessary, and extra corn just before roosting time, and be sure to watch out for those drafts!

 

[tazzy]

okay, thanks! it's so worrisome to even see the pin feathers on their wings! thanks for setting my mind at ease. we've had chickens for 2-1/2 years now and this is the first time I've noticed a moult. not sure how they did it undetected last fall. but I didn't see it that time.