Lost Feathers - when will they grow back?

[jstlitlome]

I have 3 fifteen month old hens that have areas that they have lost feathers. Two of them were my late Roosters favorites and the feather loss is on their backs. My rooster was caught by a fox, so that is not an issue anymore. (its been about 2 months since he died) The other is a silkie who's top feathers were picked out during an especially cold stressfull week this winter by the bigger hens. She looks downright silly.

My questions is: when will these feathers grow back? I have dusted for mites just in case, but have not seen any. I have increased protein. Do I have to wait for a molt?

Thanks in advance!

Leslie

 

[Kelsie2290]

Ya, usually you have to wait until they go though a molt to have most of the feathers regrow.

 

[jstlitlome]

Thanks, Kelsie. I'm just getting tired of having to explain why my silkie looks silly!