Which of the following is most likely to improve color of comb and waddle?

[Queen of the chickens]

I suddenly noticed tonight that my flock is looking quite spectacular. Their combs and waddles are super bright and red after looking rather lack-luster for much of the winter. Even the EEs with their tiny combs were really showing up. I'm not sure what is responsible for the change, but I have a few theories:

1. It's been really warm and sunny lately (80ish), could the extra warmth improve circulation and make the combs look better?

2. Is it the sun? Is it like a tan for them?

3. Is it something we fed them? My husband fed them half a bag of rabbit food all at once (long story but boils down to a miscommunication) a couple of days ago, could it be some nutrient in the food?

These are the only things I can think of. . . What do you think?

 

[Nava]

I think it has to do with Spring, and the are getting ready to lay some eggs for you!!!

 

[howfunkyisurchicken]

I think it has to do with Spring, and the are getting ready to lay some eggs for you!!!

x2. My hens are looking great feather wise, but their combs seem to be the brightest, prettiest red right before they lay their egg each day. Then, after the deed is done, their combs looks a little paler. I believe hormones influence comb color more than anything else, hence why cocky cockerels and roosters always have such nice looking combs and wattles. Just my humble opinion though.

 

[donrae]

Yeah, it's not necessarily feed related. It's a sign of sexual maturity and fertility. In the winter when they quit laying, the combs will become paler again, then brighten up when they're reaching fertility again. You can't feed them anything that's going to effect it.

 

[CluckyJay]

My hens also get paler combs when they are being submissive to me. As we hold them they fade and the birds relax. When we set them down they turn dark red again.

 

[Queen of the chickens]

Laying has picked up recently, but many of them kept laying right through the winter. It was also late evening when I noticed and they were all done laying for the day. If it's not the food, I think they were just having a little Spring Fever.