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Why Is My Hen Losing Its Feathers?

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Possible cause Observable symptoms Solutions or actions
Seasonal molting Diffuse feather loss, laying stops, active hen Protein intake, patience, monitoring overall condition
Feather pecking between hens Bare patches, exposed skin, stress, agitation Reorganize the space, enrich the environment, adjust feeding
Nutritional deficiencies Dull, brittle plumage, irregular feather loss Supplementation, balanced and appropriate diet
External parasites Scratching, redness, scabs, localized feather loss Antiparasitic treatment, cleaning the henhouse
Age or egg laying Slow loss, partial regrowth, bare areas Monitoring without intervention if the hen remains active
Wear caused by a rooster Loss on the back or wings, living with a rooster Install a protective saddle, adjust the ratio
Stress or self-pecking Feather pulling, isolation, nervousness Stabilize the environment, eliminate sources of anxiety
Internal illness Multiple symptoms, abnormal behavior Urgent veterinary consultation
The loss of feathers in a hen can be puzzling and sometimes worrying. Seeing a bird partially plucked, whether on the neck, back, or belly, often raises questions. Should you be concerned? Is it normal behavior? A disease? A deficiency? This common phenomenon deserves careful analysis, as several causes are possible, often combined. Here is everything you need to know to understand why your hen is losing her feathers.

My hen is losing her feathers due to molting

In gallinaceous birds, molting is a seasonal biological process. It generally occurs in autumn. During this period, the hen renews her feathers to better cope with climate variations. She may appear thinner, dull, and may even stop laying eggs. The plumage gradually falls out and is replaced first by soft down and then by new feathers. This cycle can last between 4 and 12 weeks, depending on the individual and its environment. No intervention is required if the diet is balanced and the hen remains active. However, it is advisable to increase the intake of animal or plant-based proteins during this period, as feathers are mainly composed of them. Dried mealworms, sunflower seeds, or small amounts of cat kibble can help support this process.

My hen is losing her feathers due to pecking between poultry

If feathers fall out in patches and the skin is sometimes exposed, it may be a case of feather pecking. This behavior is caused by stress, boredom, or an imbalance within the flock. Hens attack each other, pull out feathers, and may even cause injuries. This phenomenon is common in poorly arranged small spaces or in cases of excessive overcrowding. To reduce pecking, several measures should be taken:
  • Provide at least 1 m² per hen in outdoor space
  • Add enrichment activities (straw, hanging vegetables, perches, dust baths)
  • Check flock balance (avoid excessive age or breed differences)
  • Remove overly intense artificial lighting that can overstimulate hens
A diet that is too poor or too rich in grains can also worsen the problem. A lack of proteins or minerals sometimes leads to attraction toward the feathers of other hens.

My hen is losing her feathers due to a nutritional deficiency

Ma poule perd ses plumes à cause d’une carence alimentaire A hen’s diet must cover all her needs, particularly in sulfur, amino acids, zinc, and vitamins A and E. A deficiency in these elements causes fragile plumage, premature feather loss, or incomplete regrowth. The feathers become dull, brittle, and uneven. A basic ration should consist of a complete feed for laying hens, supplemented if necessary with suitable kitchen scraps (rice, cooked vegetables, unsalted animal proteins). Crushed oyster shells, vitamin supplements, or brewer’s yeast can be effective if a deficiency is suspected. A cuttlefish bone, placed freely in the enclosure, provides a natural source of calcium and helps strengthen the quality of regrowing feathers.
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My hen is losing feathers due to parasites such as lice or mites

When feather loss is accompanied by intense scratching, redness, or scabs, it is essential to inspect the plumage. Red mites, chewing lice, or mites live in the feathers, under the wings, and around the cloaca. They feed on blood or keratin and cause itching, irritation, and localized feather loss. Treatment involves several steps:
  • Cleaning and thorough disinfection of the coop
  • Applying a suitable insecticide to the hens (diatomaceous earth, natural spray, or chemical treatment)
  • Repeating the treatment after 7 days to eliminate eggs
  • Monitoring overall health and egg production
An untreated parasite weakens the bird, reduces laying, and can sometimes lead to death in the medium term.

My hen is losing feathers due to age or egg laying

Young hens at the beginning of their reproductive life experience hormonal fluctuations that can sometimes affect their plumage. A seasonal drop in laying or a complete stop as winter approaches is often accompanied by a partial molt. These changes can cause feathers to fall around the neck, belly, or back, without any sign of illness. In older hens, the plumage becomes less dense. Renewal cycles slow down. Certain areas such as the neck or back may remain bare for longer periods. This does not indicate a serious problem, but rather a natural slowing of metabolism. If the hen remains active, eats well, and shows no other symptoms, there is no cause for concern.

My hen is losing feathers because the rooster is physically wearing her down

Ma poule perd ses plumes à cause du coq qui l’use physiquement When a rooster is present in the group, it may wear down the hens’ feathers through repeated mounting during mating. This causes localized feather loss on the back or wings. This wear is common among the rooster’s favored hens, especially when their number is insufficient. A recommended ratio is one rooster for eight to ten hens. Below this threshold, females may be subjected to significant physical pressure. To prevent feather loss and injuries, it is possible to use protective saddles, fabric harness-like accessories that protect the hens’ backs. These items are discreet, easy to fit, and very effective. Changes in the rooster’s behavior or periods of stress within the group can intensify this phenomenon. Regular observation helps identify the most affected hens and take appropriate measures.

My hen is losing feathers due to stress or self-pecking

A stressed hen reacts in different ways: stopping egg laying, unusual vocalizations, agitation, pecking… or pulling out her own feathers. This behavior is known as self-pecking. It may appear after relocation, a change in routine, aggression, or persistent noise. Chronic stress disrupts the hen’s natural behaviors. In the absence of a visible predator, she may turn on herself. Feathers on the breast, legs, or back are often the first to be affected. These areas become pinkish and sometimes scabby. Prevention involves:
  • A stable routine (feeding schedules, natural light)
  • A suitable temperature in the coop (no drafts or excessive heat)
  • Daily outdoor access whenever possible
  • Removing anxiety-inducing factors (rodents, construction noise, approaching predators)
A stressed hen may also stop eating or isolate herself. Behavioral changes are signals that should be addressed early. Plants such as peppermint to nibble help channel stress and provide gentle daily stimulation.
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My hen is losing feathers due to illness or an internal disorder

Some diseases cause feather disorders. Viruses such as Marek’s disease or thyroid conditions can disrupt feather growth. These cases remain rare and are usually accompanied by other visible symptoms: walking difficulties, a tilted head, ruffled feathers, diarrhea, or general weakness. It can sometimes be difficult to distinguish a simple molt from the early stages of illness. Observing the entire flock helps identify abnormalities. If several hens show the same signs, or if one hen’s overall condition deteriorates quickly, action must be taken promptly. An avian veterinarian should then be consulted to establish an accurate diagnosis. Tests may reveal internal infections or deeper imbalances beyond a simple nutritional deficiency. Early treatment increases the chances of recovery. In some cases, euthanasia is the only solution to prevent the spread of disease.

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