Do chickens in central Florida molt?

[SilkiesRcool]

I’ve had my chickens for a little over two years now and they haven’t molted. Is this normal/healthy? Do I need to invoke them to molt somehow? My egg layer flock I’m not sure if they are molting or got bugs. I’ve treated them for lice and a year ago so I’m not sure if they got them again. Thank you for the help

 

[50-45-1]

Chickens molt no mater where they live.
There is no way to induce it, it will happen when it happens.

 

[SueT]

Feathers need to be replaced so all birds do molt. Some chickens will molt gradually and it is barely noticeable.

 

[Lazy Farmer]

yes. It is a seasonal thing when it occurs.
But also over crowding/pecking-
Mites/lice-
Rooster mating ware causes feather loss as well.
I live in N.C. Fl as well.

 

[Trux]

Just out of curiosity, what do you feed your chickens as far as feed, treats etc

 

[SilkiesRcool]

I feed the dumor egg layer and give them scratch and leftovers for treats

 

[Trux]

I feed the dumor egg layer and give them scratch and leftovers for treats

So the 16% pellets or crumble? I feed the same stuff, except mine also get 20% in a separate feeder. I also give them black oil sunflower seeds and a cabbage every couple weeks.
I was thinking if you were feeding a higher protein feed say like 20-24% might be why you weren't seeing the molt, but I don't think it matters.
Mine are starting to molt but it isn't very noticeable except for the feathers all over the run

 

[SilkiesRcool]

Ok thank you for all of your help I appreciate it.

 

[N F C]

yes. It is a seasonal thing when it occurs.
But also over crowding/pecking-
Mites/lice-
Rooster mating ware causes feather loss as well.
I live in N.C. Fl as well.

As a former Floridian (actually lived not far from Farmer Connie!)...yes, they do molt!

 

[nikkers390]

I live in Florida and yes the chickens molt. Spring chicks usually molt late in their second year.
My chickens get layer feed, leftovers and greens regularly.
When they moult, I supplement with 24% feed or dry cat food for extra protein.