Molting in winter

[TeresalaGrande]

They're not feathering their nests. There is no sign of feathers anywhere. I'll try the calcium supplements. I can't help thinking that they should've had a rest from laying at some point in the winter. Obviously we've been very grateful for the eggs, but it seems a bit hard on the girls if their systems don't get a rest at all.

 

[Sammster]

They're not feathering their nests. There is no sign of feathers anywhere. I'll try the calcium supplements. I can't help thinking that they should've had a rest from laying at some point in the winter. Obviously we've been very grateful for the eggs, but it seems a bit hard on the girls if their systems don't get a rest at all.

I'm wondering ~ if they're eating the feathers, perhaps they need more protein? I'm pretty new to chickens, so I will tag someone who should be able to help. However ~ calcium is very important, and should always be made available to layers. So it will be good to add that.
They haven't stopped laying, even with the molting?

@Eggcessive

 

[Eggcessive]

They're not feathering their nests. There is no sign of feathers anywhere. I'll try the calcium supplements. I can't help thinking that they should've had a rest from laying at some point in the winter. Obviously we've been very grateful for the eggs, but it seems a bit hard on the girls if their systems don't get a rest at all.

I would only offer layer feed and put out crushed oyster shell for them to take as they like. I wouldn’t give other calcium supplements. The feather loss shouldn’t be connected to calcium. If it isn’t molting or a mini-molt, it is probably feather picking.,

 

[TeresalaGrande]

No, they haven't stopped laying.

 

[Sammster]

I would only offer layer feed and put out crushed oyster shell for them to take as they like. I wouldn’t give other calcium supplements. The feather loss shouldn’t be connected to calcium. If it isn’t molting or a mini-molt, it is probably feather picking.,

That's what I meant - oyster shell. Thank you for that correction

 

[TeresalaGrande]

Thank you very much. One of them is practically bald underneath, even inside her little legs at the top!