Molt Mystery

[gltrap54]

I have a mixed flock (12) RIR & Creme Legbar hens about 2 years old ... I was gettin 3-4 eggs/day & like a faucet they shut off.... Feathers everywhere so I'm guessing a molt but in the spring ??? What could have thrown the entire flock into a molt at the same time in the spring? I'm 70 & have had hens through out time but I've never seen this... I haven't gotten an egg in more than 3 weeks & yes I have a camera in the coop... Strange...

 

[rosemarythyme]

Did you extend the laying season in winter with artificial lighting?

Any sudden changes or other stressors, like a predator wandering around?

 

[gltrap54]

Did you extend the laying season in winter with artificial lighting?

Any sudden changes or other stressors, like a predator wandering around?

They have always had a 250 watt heat lamp in the winter...

 

[rosemarythyme]

They have always had a 250 watt heat lamp in the winter...

Was it a red or white bulb, or a non-light generating type of bulb (like ceramic)? If you were providing artificial light through winter and they didn't molt because of it, they're likely doing it now to make up for it.

 

[aart]

They have always had a 250 watt heat lamp in the winter...

There's your answer.

Was it a red or white bulb, or a non-light generating type of bulb (like ceramic)? If you were providing artificial light through winter and they didn't molt because of it, they're likely doing it now to make up for it.

Even a red light can affect laying.