Molting and egg production

[TexasNovice]

My chickens have started molting and egg production ceased. How long before egg production resumes, on the average. Thanks

 

[Happy Chooks]

Roughly 3 months, depending on how hard the molt is. The harder the molt, the faster they seem to grow back in. When they lose feathers in bits, it seems to take much longer. Once all their feathers are grown back in, they have to get their body weight back up to a sustainable level. Then they can lay eggs again.

 

[Smoochie]

If the hens are older you may not see eggs until spring. It also depends on the breed and if you are supplementing with artificial light though the winter.

 

[TexasNovice]

They are not quite 2 years old -- Red Sex linked.

Thanks for your help. It is always comforting to have experts to rely on.

 

[TexasNovice]

I forgot to add. I am giving them 14 hours of "daylight".

 

[Happy Chooks]

I forgot to add. I am giving them 14 hours of "daylight".

They still have to finish the molting process. Then the lighting will help. Feathers are mostly protein and their bodies cannot replace feathers and lay eggs too. All their energy has to go into replacing feathers. You can help it along by giving them high protein treats, like mealworms, meat scraps, etc.

 

[TexasNovice]

Thanks again.