First year molt question.

[flyin-lowe]

I got my first nine hens this past spring, they all hatched one year ago in October. (3 RIR, 3 rocks, and 3 golden comets). I have noticed their egg laying slowing down slightly with the shorter days. I have not seen any signs of a molt yet. Do all hens always molt once a year or are all bread different? Temps are definitely getting colder and we will really be into winter before we know it. I am assuming given the fact they are over a year old they will all molt this year?

 

[EggSighted4Life]

Hi.

I would expect them to molt this year. But not sure if being born in October verses March makes a difference or not. Also, many slow down for winter even if they don't molt.

 

[flyin-lowe]

Thanks, I know and expected the egg laying to slow down over the winter.

 

[flyin-lowe]

I just noticed today a large amount of black and white feathers in my run and many more around the yard after I let them out today. Looks like at least one of my barred rocks is starting to molt.