chickens loosing feathers

[bluecoop]

two of five chickens loosing their feathers around the breast area. at first it seemed the chest feathers were turning white. now i can see skin. and they just don't look as good as they did even a few weeks ago. anyone? am new to the chicken game any help would be awesome. cheers

 

[Silkie Chick]

They could be molting... Or broody.

 

[Silkie Chick]

Oh, BTW

 

[LoriL]

I also have a hen losing feathers, but just her beard feathers, for the second time in a few months. She's a 10 month old Amercauna who seems healthy otherwise; has been laying almost daily for 4-5 months. I'm also not sure if it's really a problem or not. None of the hens seem to have external parasite problems, and I haven't seen any evidence that the other 2 hens are picking on her. Interested in hearing ideas from you all. Thanks for all the good info I find roaming around the BackYard!