specific question regarding feathers missing plumes

[IknowRob]

On of my hens, the Americauna, is missing the plumes on the back her neck and the top of her head. She also hasn't laid in over a month.

The funny thing is, she still has the quills attached to her neck, and the skin on her neck looks fine, without any redness, but I rubbed some DE all over her just to make sure. We recently had very cold weather where the girls were 'cooped up' for several days, so I am worried about a bully.

Anyway, what do you guys think? Bully, or infestation?

 

[FridayYet]

Are you sure it is quills and not just new feathers coming in after a molt? When they come in they are surrounded by a hard white sheath and can resemble a quill. Also, if she's molting and regrowing new feathers, they often stop laying for a while and since the days are short, may not lay much until spring.

Welcome to BYC and I'm glad you joined us!

Edited to fix typo.

 

[Ballerina Bird]

I agree that sounds like molting.