Allotment Gardening Advice Help Chat

Poultry and Pets => The Hen House => Topic started by: anitaws on October 17, 2009, 17:06

Title: Moulting! at this time of year
Post by: anitaws on October 17, 2009, 17:06
I'm a bit confused but my three of my four barnevelders appear to be moulting just as the weather is turning colder.  One is almost down to oven ready, two are just showing signs.  Only one still laying eggs but at a reduced rate.

We collected them March time at 21 weeks old, I thought moult time was in July.  Does there age/hatch time make any difference?  Can I expect all four to moult. 

Any information would be gratefully appreciated.
Thank you
Anita

Title: Re: Moulting! at this time of year
Post by: redmolly on October 17, 2009, 17:52
Apparently they can moult at any time - Winter time is just more unfortunate for them!! Have read a few posts like that! Someone more knowledgeable will no dout be along soon!!  :D
Title: Re: Moulting! at this time of year
Post by: North Devon Dumpling on October 17, 2009, 17:56
We had one that moulted big time during the snows last year  ::)  I think that it is common for a moult at one year so if they were 21 weeks in March then hatching was probably about a year ago.  Ours didn't all moult, only one.  And then they have all moulted again around the beginning of Sept.  Give them some poultry spice to give them a bit of pep.  I am sure others better qualified than I will be along shortly to give other moulting care advice.  :)
Title: Re: Moulting! at this time of year
Post by: too many girls on October 17, 2009, 18:12
they're just changing to the winter duvet, bit like me :lol:
Title: Re: Moulting! at this time of year
Post by: anitaws on November 29, 2009, 14:55
Thanks all, I didn't think of the year old moult. 

Three now well refeathered but one not showing signs or moulting.  Hubby says I'd better get knitting a jacket for her as shes bound to moult in the coldest weather.  Lilly's the only one still laying, it would be good if she waited for the others to start again.

Anita
Title: Re: Moulting! at this time of year
Post by: LittleRedHen on November 29, 2009, 16:19
Our Black Rock is just starting to grow her feathers back from a big moult.  I crocheted little jumpers for my hens - just in case.  I see you rolling your eyes!  LOL!  I was ready to put one on her when she stopped moulting and grew her feathers back!