Normal to have downy feathers everywhere in coop and run?

[lamorris]

My chicks are about 13 weeks and my coop and run seem like there are downy feathers EVERYWHERE. Is this normal? They seem fine otherwise, just surprised at the amount they still seem to be losing. When does this usually stop?

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Most get their adult feathers between 3-5 months. Baby molts are normal.

 

[OhZark Biddies]

See this recent related thread:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/feathers-in-the-coop.1265235/

 

[chickens really]

Yes, they have a juvenile molt and lose the Chick colours for adults plumage.

 

[Dancing With Chickens]

My chicks are about 13 weeks and my coop and run seem like there are downy feathers EVERYWHERE. Is this normal? They seem fine otherwise, just surprised at the amount they still seem to be losing. When does this usually stop?

When chicks are young, they go through "mini-molts" as I call them. They lose their baby fluff and small feathers and grow bigger, stronger feathers. You won't notice them missing feathers, you'll just see them around the run. The molts will stop at about 20-22 weeks. Be sure to pick up the feathers, because I've seen my chicks run around with them and try to eat them! Have fun with your chicks!

 

[Chickassan]

They can eat the feathers, they're full of protein.

When chicks are young, they go through "mini-molts" as I call them. They lose their baby fluff and small feathers and grow bigger, stronger feathers. You won't notice them missing feathers, you'll just see them around the run. The molts will stop at about 20-22 weeks. Be sure to pick up the feathers, because I've seen my chicks run around with them and try to eat them! Have fun with your chicks!

 

[Dancing With Chickens]

They can eat the feathers, they're full of protein.

I've had a chicken eat a feather and get impacted crop before, so I was just being safe. At least I won't be so worried about them trying to eat them now

 

[Chickassan]

Lol! The feather probably wasn't the sole cause but I can see why that would worry you. As long as they aren't going overboard it is fine.

I've had a chicken eat a feather and get impacted crop before, so I was just being safe. At least I won't be so worried about them trying to eat them now

 

[Dancing With Chickens]

Lol! The feather probably wasn't the sole cause but I can see why that would worry you. As long as they aren't going overboard it is fine.

There was also sand in their run then for so,=me reason, so maybe that contributed as well.

 

[Dancing With Chickens]

There was also sand in their run then for so,=me reason, so maybe that contributed as well.

I mean some LOL!