Molting and Odd Chicken Behavior

[GRB73]

Two of my three 18 month old chickens are molting heavily. This is our first molt experience and I think all three of us are a little unnerved by it! Feathers are everywhere.

I'm concerned because the girls' behavior has not been normal. Instead of foraging, they choose to stand behind a chair on my back patio or under the patio table, grooming themselves. They are also very flighty and run away when I approach them. I don't think they are ill-but I'm a newbie at this and could be missing something. They had runny poo a few days ago, but poo is back to normal now. Eyes/nose are clear, breathing is normal. Eating and drinking well. When I call them for treats they come running at top speed. They're just not interested in their normal chicken activities. They also seem more hungry than normal. Do I need to offer a higher protein feed? I've been feeding them 1/8 C. sunflowers every other day, alternating with a scrambled egg.

For those experienced chicken keepers out there, have you seen behavior changes during molt time?

Thanks

 

[Maeschak]

Yes, chickens will act weird when molting sometimes... Depending on how severe the molt is. A few of mine hid from the world for a good few weeks until the worst of the molt was over. Apparently it can be painful when the new feathers start coming in.

And yes, make sure they have a good amount of protein in their feed as they need all they can get to regrow feathers.

 

[lazy gardener]

All normal. They are preening to help the new feathers emerge from the shafts. They need more calories, and they are uncomfortable, and doing their best to avoid being handled or any type of confrontation.

 

[aart]

It's normal, just a new 'normal' for you to observe.

Some seem to go into resting/isolation mode.....others don't seem to miss a beat.
Definitely offer more protein, especially animal protein.

Hard to offer eggs when they are not laying....haha!....canned mackerel is another good animal protein to offer.

 

[Chickassan]

They get a little bit down well at least mine do. Guess I would too if the shoe was on the other foot. It will get a little bit better every day, just a crappy time to be a chicken.