Homely hens

[jessica32]

I am wondering if my hens' feathers will grow back. I had a ratio of 18 hens to 2 roosters last season which seemed acceptable. Unfortunately my roosters only got with my new hens so it was more like a ratio of 10 to 2. Most of my year old hens now have no feathers on their backs. I recently put my roosters in the freezer but, after about 3 weeks haven't seen any sign of feather regrowth on my hens backs. Is it too soon or after almost a year of no feathers are things too damaged for me to expect regrowth? Does anyone else have experience with this? I'm sick of having homely hens!

 

[Azriel]

Feathers take a while to grow, give them about 8 weeks and they should be looking good again.

 

[jessica32]

Thanks for the info!

 

[ailurophile23]

I have had a similar problem - rooster is gone now but the hens still have bald patches. I have noticed some feather picking by some of the hens so I am increasing the protein in their diet but I have the feeling that these hens are also starting their first ever molt. So it may take even longer for their feathers to fill back in. Hopefully by the time cold weather arrives they will have their down coats filled out.