Missing feathers?

[Kissthekiwi]

Hello, I just noticed two days ago that one of my chickens is missing her feathers on the back of her head. I can still see quills, but no feathers. I haven’t noticed any of the other three hens beating up on her and there’s no blood. I haven’t been able to examine too closely, but from what I can see, it doesn’t look like lice or pests. Anyone have any guesses from the images below? Thanks for your help! I’m a newbie

 

[Cragg Klefor]

Hi @Kissthekiwi
How old is your chicken? Is she molting? The pictures are not very clear but can you see new feathers coming in? When they molt it can often begin on their heads. I wonder is it new pin feathers you are seeing rather than pre-existing quills?
Their first true molt usually takes place when they are around 1.5 years old. They can have a mini molt at around 8 months old.

 

[Kissthekiwi]

Hi @Kissthekiwi
How old is your chicken? Is she molting? The pictures are not very clear but can you see new feathers coming in? When they molt it can often begin on their heads. I wonder is it new pin feathers you are seeing rather than pre-existing quills?
Their first true molt usually takes place when they are around 1.5 years old. They can have a mini molt at around 8 months old.

Oh, maybe? Gosh, I hope so! I’ll look closer tomorrow to see if I can see any new feathers. She’s just shy of nine months, so sounds like that could be possible. Thank you!

 

[Cragg Klefor]

That sounds about right.
If you want to you could get a couple of closer photos would be happy to take a look.

Here are some photos of pin feathers. They are normally really small on their heads.Best wishes

 

[Wyorp Rock]

Looks like molting to me too. @Kissthekiwi take a closer look and let us know what you think