Moulting

[cp_30256]

what is moulting and when does it start? Is there a way to keep them from moulting? Also why are my chickens plucking tail feathers from the other chickens and plucking feathers from there back down to the tail?

 

[silkiechicken]

Moulting is half age half seasonal. Most will moult at about a year to 18 months or in the late fall/winter, but it can vary. Nothing to stop it, it is natural and necessary for healthy feathers and chickens. Plucking feathers is often stress and/or protein related. Make sure they have enough space, remove the worst offenders, give extra protein in their diet, and possibly get an anti pick lotion to cover the spots being targeted.