Losing Feathers

[Sams Backyard Flock]

My EE Dixie is 10 weeks old and I’ve notice when I go into the run I’m finding several of her feathers, unlike any of her same age siblings. It also looks like she’s thinner than the RI her age. She used to be the same thickness. This has been going on for about 2 weeks now. I’ve checked her from top to bottom no injuries no bugs, very clean great eater and healthy acting. Her feathers are distinctive in color. Should I be concerned?

 

[chickenlittle21]

She looks fine to me

 

[Peppercorngal]

Chicks molt many times before adulthood. I found this which may help you.

Chicks go through four stages of molts before they reach adulthood. These typically happen at 1 to 6 weeks, 7 to 9 weeks, 12 to 13 weeks, and 20 to 22 weeks. A chicken's tail feathers are the last thing to grow in after the 20 to 22 week molt.
Chickens & Molting: What You Need to Know | Tractor Supply Co.

www.tractorsupply.com/out-here_articles_chickens_molting

As long as she is eating, drinking, pooping normally I'd not be concerned!

 

[Sams Backyard Flock]

Thank you so much. I read about molting but thought it was annual after they were full grown. She’s has a wonderful playful personality. And all the chickens are spoiled and well taken care of.

 

[rosemarythyme]

FYI I think Dixie might be a Dixon... see if you can post some clearer photos over at https://www.backyardchickens.com/forums/what-breed-or-gender-is-this.15/ if that's a concern.

 

[aart]

Chicks go through four stages of molts before they reach adulthood. These typically happen at 1 to 6 weeks, 7 to 9 weeks, 12 to 13 weeks, and 20 to 22 weeks. A chicken's tail feathers are the last thing to grow in after the 20 to 22 week molt.

I thought it was only 3.

Article states this too, which is not true:
" Twice each year, mature chickens lose their feathers so new, fresh plumage can grow in."
Adult birds only molt once a year.

 

[aart]

FYI I think Dixie might be a Dixon... see if you can post some clearer photos over at https://www.backyardchickens.com/forums/what-breed-or-gender-is-this.15/ if that's a concern.

Ditto Dat....pretty red comb for 10 weeks.

 

[Peppercorngal]

I thought it was only 3.

Article states this too, which is not true:
" Twice each year, mature chickens lose their feathers so new, fresh plumage can grow in."
Adult birds only molt once a year.

You are correct, this article is no good! I just know when my chicks are growing up I find 3 or 4 pillows worth of feathers all over the place for quite a long time. I didn't mean to share untrue stuff. Sorry.