My RIR's back feathers

[D Mueller]

Raising chickens is a new learning experience for us! Thus this question: Is it normal for RI Red's back feathers to turn white or grayish. Both girls have large spots on the top of their backs. My Black Sex Links look fine. The only change in routine is that we've left the heat lamp in their smallish coop on a couple of really cold nights! They are all 8 months old. Could they be molting? Should I worry or take action? Can anyone help?

 

[Fred's Hens]

First, since this is the section for birds bred to the Standard, let me ask you where you got your line of Reds?

 

[D Mueller]

I purchased my birds at Orschelin in Hastings, NE.

 

[paddock36]

If they were missing back feathers when you got them then it might be caused by an overly breeding roo. Could also be mites, or molting. The gray feathers you are probably seeing are the under plumage. Post a picture and someone could tell you easier.