Losing feathers

[Ravenseye]

I have a Red Star that's lost her feathers around about 3/4 of her neck. You only notice it when she sticks her neck way out. She's also somewhat more mottled looking than usual so I'm wondering if she's molting. I don't know her exact age but we bought her just as she started laying and that was back in May. Should I be worried about something else? Any advice?

Thanks!

 

[omelette'smom]

Are there feathers missing out of her backside? Do you have a rooster that's maybe an aggressive mater? He'll rip out feathers as he's trying to mount. Just check for mites too. Maybe someone else will have advice.

 

[Ridgerunner]

My guess is that she is molting. They usually start around the head and neck. Here's a link on molting that may make you feel better.

Mississippi State describes molting
http://msucares.com/poultry/management/poultry_feathers.html

Feather loss can indicate a problem. I really don't think it is in your case, but here is a site that discusses that, just in case.

Kansas State feather loss
http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/library/lvstk2/mf2308.pdf

Good luck!

 

[DianeB]

She is probably molting. Molting is suppose to start around the neck and then along the back. Are her feathers longer and unkempt? If you look around the neck and across her back their should be pin like tubs were new feathers are growing in. I'll post a picture latter of one of my hens.

I wasn't sure if my hens are molting. It is only their first year and I was told they wouldn't molt until next year. But, sure enough, they are. There is starting to be feathers everywhere. My NH red is the worst.

DB

 

[Ravenseye]

I have no roosters so it's not that. Dark now, but I'll check for mites and those feather tubes as well. Thanks everyone!