If your backyard flock is starting to look a little scruffy this time of year, don’t worry—it's likely just molting season! Each fall, chickens naturally shed and regrow their feathers to prepare for the colder months ahead. While it can make your hens look a little ragged, molting is a healthy, normal process that happens annually.
Why Do Chickens Molt in the Fall?
Molting is triggered by shorter daylight hours as summer turns into fall. With less daylight, chickens’ bodies instinctively shift away from egg production and focus energy on feather regrowth. Feathers are made up of about 85% protein, so replacing an entire coat of plumage requires a lot of nutritional support. During this time, egg production often slows or even stops so hens can channel nutrients toward feather growth instead.
Supporting Your Chickens During Molt
Because feather regrowth demands extra protein, fall is the perfect time to adjust your flock’s diet. Adding high-protein treats and supplements can help speed feather development, reduce stress on your birds, and ensure they come out of molt looking healthy and shiny.
Some favorite high-protein fall treats include:
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Black oil sunflower seeds
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Dried mealworms or grubs
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Peas, scrambled eggs, or fish scraps (in moderation)
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Coop Care's Organic Chicken Scratch – a balanced, protein-rich blend made with organic ingredients that’s perfect for treating your flock while giving them the nutrition they need during molt.
Coop Care During Molt
In addition to boosting protein, keep your coop clean and cozy during molt. Chickens can be more sensitive to drafts and stress when they’re replacing feathers, so fresh bedding, good ventilation, and a calm environment will go a long way. A clean space also helps prevent mites and bacteria that could irritate their sensitive new feather growth.
To make cleaning easier, try Coop Care’s All Purpose Cleaner. It’s designed to be tough on dirt and messes but safe for your flock, helping you keep the coop fresh and healthy during this critical time of year.
