Orpingtons loosing feathers?

[Jessica010]

Hi there I have just noticed that my to orpingtons have been losing their feathers. I am not sure if they have been pulling them out themselves or if it's a moulting thing that they do? we're just coming into winter here New Zealand so I'm unsure about this?
Any advice would be great, I'm new to raising chickens so I'm a bit worried.. Pics included!

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

More than likely a molt.

 

[aart]

If they are ~14-18 months old, it's likely a molt.
Are you seeing feathers lying around?
If you look closely you'll probably see pin feathers coming in.

 

[Jessica010]

If they are ~14-18 months old, it's likely a molt.
Are you seeing feathers lying around?
If you look closely you'll probably see pin feathers coming in.

There actually is lots of feathers lying around! They're around 17months so this makes heaps of sense thank you!