Shedding in chickens and useful care tips during this period

With the onset of autumn, some chickens turn into walking "feather bombs" or look like they've survived a brutal fight with a hawk. We tell you how to help birds quickly restore feather cover

Hens molt to naturally renew their feathers for the winter, pushing out old ones and making room for new ones. At the same time, some birds may lose almost all their plumage at once, while others molt in patches.

Since the molting process starts a decrease in daylight hours, the process falls on the autumn period, although there are differences here: some birds molt in early autumn, others closer to winter. Young animals less than one year old may not shed at all during the first autumn or winter.

Also, the duration of the molt will vary for each individual bird and can range from several weeks to several months. And although this is a completely normal process, additional care will not hurt, since there is a loss of nutrients, and the “naked” chicken has a pretty bad mood.

As a rule, during molting, the activity of chickens decreases. You may notice that moulting birds even sit differently, avoiding pressure on areas that are too exposed.

Therefore, try to provide the birds with clean bedding, do not pick it up unnecessarily.

In addition to a decrease in activity, appetite is also lost due to a slowdown in metabolism. Scallops and beards decrease in size and turn pale - a sign that indicates an imminent drop in egg production.

During molting, laying hens rest from laying eggs. A sudden drop in egg production can be a signal that shedding is about to begin, weeks before you notice feather loss.

What to feed

You probably know that chicken feathers are made from the same material as your hair and nails, keratin, a very light but strong protein. And to build a new feather, the birds will need more protein in the feed than usual.

Here are some ways to increase the protein ingredient:

1. A standard laying hen diet is about 16% protein, so it is best to increase the protein content of the diet to 20% during shedding. If you decide to go down this path, avoid sudden dietary changes. Instead, mix the feeds slowly over the course of a week, gradually increasing the ratio of new feed to current feed. When switching back, perform the same transition.

2. Offer protein-rich treats such as scrambled eggs or boiled eggs to keep chickens from becoming addicted to the taste of raw eggs.

3. Boiled fish is a great high protein snack with healthy omega-3 oils! Some chickens are so fond of fish that they themselves catch small fish in streams and ponds, if they have the opportunity. If the chickens or you do not have access to fishing, an ordinary can of sardines or tuna once a week will definitely please the bird. The remains of shrimp from the master's table will also become an excellent delicacy.

However, remember that chickens are only satisfied with a fish day during molting or during cold weather. It is not worth it to part with such top dressing and feed the birds with fish every day. There is a lot of protein in fish - from 61% to 72%. And high-protein diets are known to cause kidney problems and obesity in poultry.

4. Sunflower seeds, in addition to protein, contain methionine, which is an important amino acid for birds and promotes feather growth.

5. Seed sprouts are useful to give twice a week. Sprouts have more nutrients, enzymes and proteins than whole seeds and are easily digestible.

Finally, don't be alarmed when chickens eat their own fallen feathers. After all, they are a great source of protein too! However, take this as a signal that the birds did not get the protein in the feed. Adjust the nutrition and be patient, because the hens will begin a full-fledged laying after replacing all the plumage.