My RIR not laying eggs :(

[Merlin1650]

We have 5 RIR hens that we got about 1 yr. ago. They were adults when we got them and had just started laying eggs and were good egg layers from the day we got them. Then they molted in the winter for about 4-5 weeks (Dec.) and no eggs, then they started laying again no problem. Here we are Aug. 18 and they haven't laid an egg in a little over two months! Is this normal? They have a nice coop, fresh water and get plenty of layer food daily. We have noticed lots of feathers all over the yard and in their coop during this time but is it normal not to lay eggs for this long? Are they going to start again? I hate to get rid of them but we got them for the eggs not for pets.

 

[Happy Chooks]

They may be older hens. Some of my 4 1/2 year old hens have been taking the summer off. They lay a bit in the spring, but not much.

 

[Merlin1650]

They're not even two years old yet.

 

[Happy Chooks]

That is not it then.

You mention feathers everywhere - do you have a picture of them? Could they be molting? Did you have any stress (like predator attacks)? Have you checked them for lice/mites?

 

[Merlin1650]

No Predators and no mites/lice. I guess they could be molting but for over 2 months?

 

[Happy Chooks]

No Predators and no mites/lice. I guess they could be molting but for over 2 months?

When my birds molt, average is 3 months before they resume laying.