Chickens lose feathers due to molting, stress, parasites, poor nutrition, or diseases, which can affect their health and egg production.
Feather loss in chickens can alarm backyard flock owners, but it’s often a normal part of their life cycle. From seasonal molting to pecking order disputes, chickens lose feathers for various reasons. Understanding these causes helps you provide proper care during feather regrowth periods.
1. Natural Molting Process
Molting is the most common reason for feather loss. Chickens typically molt annually, replacing old feathers with new ones. This natural process usually occurs in fall as daylight decreases.
How Molting Progresses
Feathers shed in a specific pattern:
- Head and neck first
- Body and back next
- Wings and tail last
Molting can last 3 weeks to 6 months. Hens often stop laying eggs during this time as their bodies focus energy on feather regrowth. For more on egg production cycles, see our guide on when Rhode Island Reds start laying.
2. Pecking Order Disputes
Chickens establish a social hierarchy through pecking. Dominant birds may pluck feathers from lower-ranking flock members. This behavior intensifies when:
| Situation | Effect |
|---|---|
| Overcrowding | Increased aggression |
| New birds introduced | Reestablishing hierarchy |
| Limited resources | Competition for food/space |
Learn effective strategies to stop chickens from pecking each other if this becomes problematic.
3. Parasite Infestations
External parasites like mites and lice cause feather loss through irritation. According to University of Minnesota Extension, northern fowl mites can reduce egg production by 15%.
Signs of Parasites
- Excessive preening
- Visible insects near vent
- Pale combs from blood loss
4. Nutritional Deficiencies
Feathers consist of 85-90% protein. Poor diet leads to brittle feathers and slow regrowth. Key nutrients for feather health include:
- Protein (18-22% during molt)
- Methionine (essential amino acid)
- Zinc and selenium
5. Stress Factors
Environmental stressors trigger feather loss. Common stressors include:
- Predator attacks
- Extreme temperatures
- Coop changes
- Loud noises
For tips on reducing stress during absences, read our article on chicken care during vacation.
6. Broodiness
Broody hens pluck breast feathers to create skin contact with eggs. This natural behavior helps regulate egg temperature during incubation.
7. Disease Conditions
Certain illnesses cause feather loss, including:
- Fowl pox
- Ringworm
- Viral infections
The PoultryDVM recommends consulting a vet if feather loss accompanies other symptoms like lethargy or appetite changes.
Supporting Feather Regrowth
Help chickens regrow feathers faster with these tips:
- Increase protein to 20% of diet
- Provide feather-growth supplements
- Reduce handling during regrowth
- Maintain clean coop conditions
- Ensure adequate space per bird
Pin feathers (new feather growth) contain blood vessels and are sensitive. Avoid disturbing these developing feathers to prevent pain and bleeding.