To Molt or Not to Molt....

[beeksnfeet]

Our BO hens are 17 months old. Recently 2 have gone broody and come out of it just fine. The Head of the bunch never has, yet suddenly stopped laying eggs 3 weeks ago. I thought at first she might be molting. There are feathers around the run and coop but not like there should for a molt (I think). She has a bare spot under her belly but is eating and acting fine. Infact on close inspection, the area is filling back in. They usually give me an egg everyday, unless something seems to upset their routine. All 3 get layer feed and usually some kind of veggies daily. They are also given left overs like pasta, fruit, salad etc. I have never given them meat or fish. They seem happy and healthy. Does anyone have any idea why Margo might have stopped laying?:/

 

[RonP]

With the longer nights this time of year, it would not be unusual for a molt.

Every bird is different.

Her molt might be slight in appearance.

If she is acting normal, I would just wait it out.

 

[beeksnfeet]

With the longer nights this time of year, it would not be unusual for a molt.

Every bird is different.

Her molt might be slight in appearance.

If she is acting normal, I would just wait it out.

Thanks. It's amazing how different they all are! Seems like I learn somethng new about them on a weekly basis. And I thought I was becoming an old hand at this!

 

[RonP]

I've had backyard flocks, as a hobby, on and off for over 40 years.
It started as a junior high school project.

I'm still experimenting and learning

.

 

[beeksnfeet]

I've had backyard flocks, as a hobby, on and off for over 40 years.
It started as a  junior high school project.

I'm still experimenting and learning  .

Ah....so there is still hope for me! Thanks again.