molting? or something else?

[eoliverpeck]

OK so one of my buffs is missing feathers on her chest (see picture) she is about 18 months old and they have never been through a molt. She also will puff up like a turkey all over, even the tail spread wide often. She doesnt stay puffed up but will do this frequently through the day. I've noticed she's been a bit broody always laying on eggs and i literally have to push her off the eggs to get them (she's not angry and has never tried to peck me or anything just stubborn). I'm worried about the missing hair, I didnt notice any visible mites i know there are microscopic ones though. The other girls who were hatched the same time as her arent going through this...yet. Any advice?! TIA

 

[sourland]

Broody hens will puff up as you describe and pluck or shed feathers to form a broody patch - aids in direct contact with and heating of the eggs. I think that is what she is up to.

 

[Manningjw]

Broody hens will puff up as you describe and pluck or shed feathers to form a broody patch - aids in direct contact with and heating of the eggs. I think that is what she is up to.

Yep, I agree. She sounds like she is doing exactly what my broody hens are doing now. They both have the feathers missing from the stomach, the second younger one is the more defensive broody and she puffs up to twice her size before she charges if you get too close haha

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