Hens in molting process

Description

When do chickens molt?

Backyard chickens often begin molting in the fall as the days start to shorten. Birds are “long day breeders,” which means that they prefer to lay eggs during the spring and summer to ensure optimal conditions for hatching chicks. Reducing hours of daylight triggers the reproductive system to slow down, which leaves extra energy for other things—in this case, replacing a few feathers (called a soft molt) or a lot of feathers (called a hard molt).

They have passed through chick-hood, have adult feathers and will start their first year of laying soon.

These are young adult hens that may or may not be laying eggs yet, but will be soon.

Raising backyard chickens can be a rewarding experience and a great way to teach kids about nature, agriculture and responsibility of caring for animals.

Hens begin laying at around six months of age and can continue for five to 10 years.