Feathers missing raw spots

[ChickOhio]

Hello,
our flock of 18 months old multibreed layers have lost lots of feathers, tail feathers, back feathers, butt feathers. This started in the early spring but has continued through out the summer and fall
we are concerned for their well being this winter. Does molting last this long, and parasite we should be treating for ?

 

[Judy]

It can. You should certainly check for lice and mites. Look especially around the tail, both on the skin and along the feather shafts, and after dark with a good light. Also, are they pecking each other?

This is the right age for a full moult.

 

[kristen2678]

Is the skin raw and irritated? Do you see pin feathers growing in? Are they laying? It sounds like more than molting. Maybe you could post a pic.