How do I tell the difference between molting and treading?

[CHICKEN CRAZY1]

Some of my chickens have been losing feathers,period.

I am wondering if it is treading or molting. I have one NHR rooster and twenty-four hens. The hens are losing feathers on their backs,which looks like treading,but they are also losing feathers on their neck and vents. It is starting to get severe,one of my hens was being pecked on her back and had started to bleed. I put vasaline on it and she is fine. What is the problem? Treading or molting?

 

[Eggcessive]

Molting takes place around 18 months, then every 12 months thereafter. You may have feather-picking taking place, and it can become a habit that become contagious. Make sure they have 16-20% protein in their feed, plenty of room in the coop, and some things to play on or distractions. A bit of scrambled eggs, game bird feed, or dry cat food can up the protein. Treading is usually just on the lower back. Molting can start on the neck then spread out. Here is a good link about molt: http://www.grit.com/animals/molting...lp-chickens-get-through-it.aspx#axzz2w5OUvPe3