Nine months old and molting?

[BethieofVA]

I have noticed a few feathers here and there, but just now I see bare spots around her eyes and top of her head. She is a nine month old RIR. I know the days are short, but she has not given me an egg for about three days now. Also, I see downy looking feathers or tufts over her wings and body. Does this sound like a molt in the making to you?

Thanks!!

 

[Scoop]

Could be a molt. I've learned from the old-timers that any chicken can molt at any time. They are not on any kind of schedule.

 

[Illia]

They can molt as early as 7 months old. I've got several Araucanas and Ameraucanas who are from 7-9 months old in molt right now.

 

[Cowgirl71]

It is very possible. Got a pic?

 

[BethieofVA]

Quote:
Thanks everyone! I will get a pic tomorrow.

 

[Scoop]

Quote:
I also had an Ameraucana that went into molt at a young age. It lasted 4 months. None of my other breeds had gone into molt with her. It was just her.

 

[BethieofVA]

Maybe she is having a mini molt. LOL!! I just went down to clean and check her out. She shows no signs of mites, lice, etc... I only have seven chickens and use DE generously. She laid an egg today, but seems grumpy and will not squat for me. I did see reach out and pluck a soft vent feather and eat it from one other chickens, who didn't even flinch! I still need to get a pic.