3 answers
★ Best answer
Hens also lose a lot of energy in the heat during summer, so an interruption starting in July could be from that too - if you had a really hot spell, they naturally dial back laying. Now it's true that it might be early for regular molting, so check that they have fresh water available at all times and that they're not too stressed. If they're starting to lose feathers now at the end of September, that's just the normal cycle picking back up and they'll start laying again in a few weeks.
It's totally normal, it's just the fall molt. Your chickens stop laying because they're losing their feathers and they're putting all their energy into that instead of making eggs. It usually lasts 6 to 8 weeks, so if they started in July, you should see eggs coming back by October or November. It's a natural cycle, no need to worry.
During this period, just make sure they have access to protein-rich food (earthworms, insects, or specific supplements) because molting takes a lot of energy. And leave them alone, they're a bit stressed. Artificial lighting can also help get them laying again if you really want eggs sooner, but it's not essential if you're not in a rush.
After November you should normally have eggs again, unless they're really old. If it goes past December, then maybe something's wrong, but for now it's totally normal!
You need to be careful here, because if they stopped laying in July that might be a bit early for the autumn molt which usually starts in August-September. They could be short on water, stressed by the heat, or have some kind of nutrition issue going on. The molt does play a role after that, but in July you should be looking more at external conditions or their feed. Did you check all that before assuming it's just the molt?
Margaux1960 asker
Yes, they have fresh water daily and regular feeding. Maybe it's stress or the intense heat this summer?
Your answer
Log into answer.