My 2-year old D'Uccle appears to be in a molt. Is this the right time of year (late summer)? She appears to be depressed, perches most of the time, and eats very little. She is also very "skiddish" when free ranging in the evening. She clucks and runs away when I approach (not normal behavior) and just stands around vs. scratching. He poo is also greenish with white. At first I thought she was really sick, but now I think it is a result of her not eating much. I also thought she exhibited some broody behavior at the beginning of the molt. Is this all NORMAL behavior, or is there possibly underlying illness?? Thanks for your support, BJ (worried chicken mom)
I've yet to study up on molting, but your title is misleading. I thought you wanted to be encouraged because you were having a fresh egg shortage. Sorry I can't help more.
Its perfectly normal. Mine are molting right now also. Dont freak out. And they move around less when they are broody and molting, so unless there is something completely abnormal, I wouldn't worry.
Thanks PouletsDeCajun...I have isolated her to break the broodiness and feathers are falling out like crazy. I will watch her for a few days and when the weather cools a bit, I'll put her back out. I wonder if this is a bad time to introduce a new batch of 4-week old chicks??
Does anyone else have anything else to add about molting behavior? Is it normal for them not to eat as much during a molt?
Quote:My birds always eat more while molting. Especially the Roosters. My "Dot" is gobbling down ever last treat I give him. He normally calls his ladies to get the treats first. During molts I up their protein. To get those nice, strong, shiny feathers I also add in black oil sunflower seeds and whole oats. Matt
