Thanks. We've tried to get rid of the rats but they keep coming back. not sure what a long term solution would be. it's actually still summery weather up here so I don't think its that yet.
Keep up the fight... continually trapping, and make sure feeders are collected nightly if you don't do so already. They still keep coming for shrapnel but it isn't an open buffet. Only way to truly rid them well is poison but it isn't MY cup of tea. Move your traps around and try different bates. It's a battle worth fighting! I usually catch a couple every few weeks and nothing for about 2 week and the cycle repeats.
Maybe try this one...
https://www.ratrelief.com/does-baking-soda-kill-rats/
Or look up other baking soda ideas bait... it is said that rodents can't pass gas while most other animals can so it is non toxic should the dogs, chickens, and such come in contact or eat it. I'm glad this is back on my radar... in my area, the mixture in an open dish absorbed to much moisture when it was just sugar and soda... I might try 1 part sugar, 1 part corn meal, and 2 parts soda... but I'm definitely gonna make some sort of balls tonight!
Molting can take several months to fully complete... they first lose feathers and then grow them back in. But once that happens... they don't often return to laying until daylight is increasing (to trigger the hormones) and it can vary by individual. If it looks like a feather exploded... is often one indicator of molt... as well as funky looking bald patches and or pin feathers coming in. A higher protein diet than is typical of most "layer" feed can help to support feather growth and recovery, as feathers are made from 90% protein and it's amino acids. Some people don't like their birds not in lay to have the excess calcium that comes in layer and may switch to flock raiser or grower. Since my birds are many ages, I always use a flock raiser with 20% protein and oyster shell on the side for layers. However some people also feed layer and never switch... it's a personal choice.
So many things can effect laying... it's odd for them to all go cold turkey at once even being the same age, to me... makes me think possible egg eater in the flock, or hidden nest, night predator visits. Pictures can help confirm if it is indeed molt or not.
Getting your new gals earlier in the spring next year will help to ensure they are laying by next years molt season. Some breeds are better winter layer than others... surprised you didn't see a lull last year or any molting already... are you providing artificial light?
