What Is Molting, And How You Can Help Your Own Flock Today
Everything you need to know about why your chickens lose feathers, how to support them with the right feed, and simple tips to keep your flock healthy during moulting season.
Molting Season in Chickens: What to Expect and How to Help Your Flock
If you’ve raised chickens for any length of time, you’ve probably noticed a time of year when your birds start looking a little scruffy, sometimes downright ragged. Don’t worry, they’re not sick! This is molting season, a natural part of a chicken’s life cycle. While it can be stressful for your flock (and a little unsightly for your coop), with the right care and nutrition, you can help your hens bounce back healthier and stronger.
What Is Molting?
Molting is the process by which chickens shed their old feathers and grow new ones. Feathers wear out over time, and molting ensures they’re replaced with fresh plumage for better insulation and protection. It’s a demanding process, as feathers are made up of about 85% protein, meaning your hens’ bodies are working overtime to grow them back.
During this time, don’t be surprised if egg production slows down or even stops altogether. That’s because hens redirect much of their energy into feather growth instead of laying.
When Does Molting Occur?
Most chickens experience their annual molt in the late summer to early fall, typically around 12–18 months of age for their first big one. It often coincides with shorter days and cooler weather.
There are also smaller molts that can happen:
Juvenile molt – Young chicks lose their baby fluff for feathers, then replace those juvenile feathers with adult plumage.
Partial molts – Hens may lose a few feathers around the neck or chest at other times of the year, often due to stress, broodiness, or changes in environment.
Feeding Chickens During Molting Season
Since feather regrowth requires a high amount of protein, nutrition is the key to helping your flock through molting. Here are some feed strategies:
1. Switch to a High-Protein Feed
Standard layer feed usually has around 16% protein, but molting hens benefit from 18–22% protein.
Here are some Bar ALE options:
https://store.baraleinc.com/organic-18-6-layer-pak-pellet-1175--40
https://store.baraleinc.com/organic-18-6-hi-energy-layer-mini-pellet-0955--40
https://store.baraleinc.com/organic-18-6-soy-free-corn-free-layer-mini-pellet-0972--40
https://store.baraleinc.com/organic-22-6-chick-1-broiler-crumble-0960--40 (will still need to supplement with calcium)
2. Protein-Rich Treats (in moderation)
Mealworms and/or black soldier fly larvae: https://store.baraleinc.com/super-grubs-dried-black-soldier-fly-larvae-14oz-6-1808--14ea
Sunflower seeds (especially black oil sunflower seeds) https://store.baraleinc.com/black-oil-sunflower-non-gmo-3-3-cs-0287--6
Cooked eggs (yes, chickens can safely eat eggs if cooked and crumbled)
Peas, fish, or meat scraps
3. Balanced Nutrition Still Matters
Don’t forget calcium! If your hens are still laying sporadically, provide free-choice oyster shell or crushed eggshells.
Other Tips and Tricks for Molting Care
Minimize stress: Keep handling to a minimum; new feather quills are sensitive and can be painful to touch.
Maintain a clean coop: A tidy, dry coop helps prevent irritation and infection during feather regrowth.
Boost immunity: Fresh greens, vegetables, and even supplements like apple cider vinegar in water can support immune health.
Patience pays off: Once their new feathers grow in, your hens will look sleek, shiny, and healthier than before.
Final Thoughts
Molting is a natural (if sometimes messy) process for chickens. While your flock may look rough for a few weeks, with high-protein feed, reduced stress, and proper care, they’ll emerge from molting season revitalized and ready to take on the colder months. Think of it as your chickens’ annual spa treatment, shedding the old and coming back brand new!
You can find our treats and feeds at your local feed store by visiting www.baraleinc.com/find-a-dealer or have treats and feed delivered directly to your door by shopping at Chewy.com: https://www.chewy.com/f/bar-ale_f1v257780
