Moulting

[Ollie44buckbuck]

Hi
Is it normal for a broody hen , in my case a bantam, to lose all her feathers on her breast area when sat on eggs?
Thanks
Ollie

 

[BantamLover21]

Hi
Is it normal for a broody hen , in my case a bantam, to lose all her feathers on her breast area when sat on eggs?
Thanks
Ollie

Yes, that is normal. Broody hens lose feathers in that area so that their skin can come into contact with the eggs they are incubating. This helps them heat the eggs more evenly. Also, the feathers lost make a softer nest for any chicks that hatch.

 

[Ollie44buckbuck]

Ahh! Thanks for your help.