Crunchy looking feathers?

[autumnpuckett]

I have 2 chickens who are about 3 and a half years old. They both have some terrible looking feathers. The ISA brown went through (maybe still lingering) a small molt but the Delaware has not. The feathers look damaged almost like they curl up on the ends now. They are no longer soft and smooth and seem crunchy now. The chickens act perfectly normal and they are eating and drinking just fine. I have 9 younger hens who do not show any signs of this.

Please let me know what I should be looking for and how to help. This is the 1st issue my hens have ever had.

Thanks!!

 

[DobieLover]

How long have you had them?
What exactly are you feeding them?
What is the protein content of their food and what is the primary protein source?

 

[autumnpuckett]

How long have you had them?
What exactly are you feeding them?
What is the protein content of their food and what is the primary protein source?

I've had them since they were day old chicks. They are now 3and half years old. The feed has not changed since they reached laying age although they may have eaten the newer chicks starter crumble when I integrated the babies (but it wasn't a long time). I use tractor supply layer mini pellets (16%). We started fermenting some organic grains a couple of months ago. They love it! We feed miscellaneous veggie scraps from time to time. They get meal worm snacks sometimes too. Once in awhile I'll throw them a couple eggs from the nesting boxes. They absolutely love that the most!!