My young pullet, approximately 8 month old, is moulting. Is this normal or could it be triggered by disease? She looks OK but with chickens one never knows for sure. I thought she would not moult until 18 month old. Some enlightening would be very welcome. Anny.
Anny, Moulting can occur at any time and at most any age. Since she was an autumn hatch chick, perhaps the summer has triggered the moult. Of course you have looked for lice (mites don't cause feather drop.) Stress can cause loss of feathers, but not a real moult. How is she getting along with the older hens? You feed your girls well, so not likely vitamin deficiency, but she will now need good vitA & D and protein to grow nice new plumage. Is her weight up to age? Weight loss rather than feather loss is a symptom of something amiss. I don't think I would worry, but just be watchful. CJR PS. Visitor from Holland came to see my bantams last weekend, a rare chance to learn more genetics! Yes, he liked my birds!
By Cjeanr on Thursday, July 5, 2001 - 11:09 pm: