Moulting

I think one of my chickens is moulting.   We have had them since about April time but none of them have moulted yet.  I have started to notice lots of small white feathers in the house and in the run but can't see that any of the chickens look like they are losing their feathers.

Is it normal for them to moult at the onset of winter?  Won't they get cold?

Sorry if this is a stupid question but this is my first winter with them so am already panicking about keeping them warm and what to do with them if we get four feet of snow again.

Hi

I was just about to ask the same question.  We had a really bad attack of red mite about 3 months ago and at 1st I thought that had returned.  I've seen no sign of them and have constantly been treating the coop so think it more than likely the moult.
How long before she gets her now set of feathers and does it mean she will stop laying?

Most pullets in their first season won't have a full moult.  They tend to look a bit raggy around the edges and a bit moth eaten, but you don't often see bare patches.

Hens in their second season will often moult much heavier, sometimes to the point of nakedness!

Most hens tens to cope quite well with the cold.  If you pick a hen up who has been standing in snow you will notice how warm the feet feel!  you do have to be careful of the feather footed breeds though, as they can get snow and mud attached to ther foot feathers which can be uncomfortable.