Unsecure chicken perches

[callyfc]

What a stupid time of year to moult!!

reassured to see that mine are not the only girls moulting.

two of them have not been laying properly for nearly 4 weeks, I have wormed them, but now they are moulting (feathers everywhere!)

How long should this go on for??

I am giving tuna, poultry spice etc.

All the girls look happy, just not eating much and they look cold!

Cally

[Jools]

I've never really timed mine, but those that moult quickly tend to re-feather pretty quickly too, within a few weeks I'd say. I read on another forum that it should be six weeks at the most and that taking longer is a sign of a lack of robustness. They go on to say that they wouldn't breed from these birds either.

 

You're right about a little extra protein, which I administer by feeding breeders pellets instead of layers. A few dried mealworms seem to be appreciated too, but I usually reserve them as treats or for poorly chickens. The robins sulk if the chickens get more than they do!!

 

Adding tonic to the drinking water is a good idea. Having exhausted my Battles Poultry Drink, I've now got some Lifeguard, but it's too soon to say whether it's any better for them.

 

The only thing I'd add is to make sure they have plenty of shelter from wind, draughts, rain etc as they will definitely be feeling it. In fact they can look pretty darned miserable when doing their porcupine impression!

[callyfc]

Thanx

Cx

[kerryegg]

No you are not alone. I have had my 2 since Feb 2008. It is now minus 8 and icy and they seem to be beginning their first moult. I still get at least one egg everyday though.