Molting or something else?

[ChickKidsDad]

From the looks of all the feathers and no eggs for the last 3 days, I think everyone is molting. All 6 hens of my girls hatched in April, and their their poduction dropped about a month ago with the shorter days to 1-3 eggs per day. Is it ok that they molt in late November? Is it normal that the all molt at once? Or should I be looking for another problem? How long does molting affect egg production? They seem happy... Thanks for your replies.

 

[PeeperKeeper]

Some breeds of chickens will stop laying when the daylight hours shorten.

 

[jhm47]

Yes, it's normal for most of them to molt at the same time. It's also normal for them to molt late in the fall. Ours are all done, but they actually start here in September, since our days begin to get really short about that time. Feed them well, and allow them to regain their feathers. It usually takes about 4-6 weeks for them to return to normal. They deserve a rest, so be patient with them.

It's also helpful to feed a high protein ration, and lots of corn. The proteinis used to regrow feathers, and the yellow corn replenishes the yellow pigment (carotenoids) that leaches out in the yolks of their eggs. I think that shredded carrots would also help, if you can get them to eat them.