neck feather loss

[rasnickp]

Any idea whats causing this? She's a nine month old black sex link. I just got a new 5 or so month old buff orpington rooster, not sure if he is doing this while trying to mate or if its something else.

 

[Michael Apple]

The hen is moulting. Those are new feathers coming in.

 

[rasnickp]

awesome thanks. Should i expect my BO hens that are the same age to molt as well soon?

 

[Michael Apple]

You're welcome. Moulting is an uncomfortable time for hens. Some more than others. I supplement when I have birds in moult. I use 1/4 tsp Avian Super Pack per gallon of water:
http://www.asp-inc.com/products/documents/prodinfo/a/avianspint.pdf

Mixing gamebird pellets/crumbles 1/2 with layer pellets helps increase the protein levels too. Or you can give them some no salt tuna a couple times a week.