Keeping Chickens in the Garden – Five Common Myths Debunked
As we start to move beyond the cold and wet season of winter and we start to see the brighter and drier weather becomes more and more consistent, it is a good time for poultry enthusiasts to begin thinking about preparing the chicken coops for warmer weather. Below, we highlight several key factors to keeping your flock happy and healthy in the summer months.
Myth 1 – Chickens are smelly and dirty!
- Ventilation
During warmer weather, adequate ventilation becomes crucial in maintaining a comfortable environment inside the chicken coop. Unlike humans, chickens lack sweat glands and rely on panting to regulate their body temperature, so it is essential to prevent heat stress and respiratory issues through adequate ventilation. Check all ventilation holes are unobstructed and consider whether you need to install extra vents or windows.Optimal airflow can be achieved by ensuring vents are positioned higher than roosting areas to facilitate the escape of warm, stale air and encourage fresh air circulation.
Myth 2 Keeping chickens will attract rats to my garden!
Keeping a few chickens in a coop in the garden is no more likely to attract rats to your outside space than feeding visiting birds, since it is the food source that can attract rodents, rather than actually keeping chickens as such. It is very straight forward to minimise the risk of unwanted visitors, you just need to ensure that any food kept near the coop is properly stored in containers which are rodent proof. Rats are opportunistic and will not hesitate to dig holes in bags of feed to get their paws on it, but a container that cannot be ripped or burrowed into is an instant deterrent.
Note: A hen in danger of heat exhaustion will be panting heavily and holding her wings away from her body. She may have a pale waddle and comb, she may be lethargic, limp, or unconscious. A chicken exhibiting these symptoms is in extreme danger of dying from heat stress and needs to be cooled quickly.
- Shade
Just as we seek shelter from the heat of the sun on hot days, chickens also require shade to avoid overheating. If your coop is based in a location exposed to direct sunlight, provide ample shade to keep the interior cool. You can create shade using cloth, tarps, or being clever with planting, such as arranging young trees or shrubs to provide extra shade for the coop and its surrounding area. Awnings or overhangs are another way to throw shade onto the outside areas such as the coop run. An area underneath the hen house, if this is raised, is a good option for escaping from the sun. Other ways to provide a cool place for your chickens is to use a parasol near the run or create a ‘den’ style shady area using chairs and a blanket. This is also a fun way of involving your kids.
3. Water Management
Hydration is really important to keep on top of in summer for your chickens and cold water is going to be your hens’ best friend during the summer months. Chickens don’t sweat so they can overheat quickly especially in warmer weather and then they can quickly become dangerously dehydrated. To counteract the risk of dehydration, ensure a constant supply of fresh, clean water is readily available within the coop and run area. Spill-proof waterers are a good investment as they minimise wastage and help avoid contamination. You can also relocate your waterers to the shady areas and consider using insulation to keep their water source cool. Timetable regular checks throughout the day to ensure the water is cool and plentiful.
4. Dust Bathing Opportunities
Chickens have a predisposition to enjoy dust bathing as part of their daily grooming routine. It helps to control pests and keep feathers and skin healthy. Allowing plenty of areas for dust bathing becomes particularly important in warmer weather when parasites are more common. Regularly replenish the dust bathing material to keep it clean and effective in controlling parasites and offer up different areas, including one in the shade. We recommend checking your housing paying particular attention to perch ends, in the nest boxes and any cracks and crevices. If you find any red mites act as soon as you can to avoid them getting out of control to prevent them impacting on your bird’s health. A tip is to quietly look in the coop with a torch after dark – they mostly come out then. If you get a sheet of white paper and press any red mites you find onto it, red streaks will appear. To rid the coop of red mites, remove any litter and use a detergent to wash down, then allow to dry. There are also products that can be used to remove the Red Mite eggs, as well as the Red Mite.
5. Predator Prevention
Electric Netting -
Using electric netting for poultry has long been seen as the best. Electric netting fences keep both poultry in and predators out as they provide a 'blanket coverage' going from ground level up to 105cm. The gaps in the netting start off at 5cm horizontal spacings (even bantams won't escape through them) and get increasingly larger as they get higher.
Post & Twine / Wire -
Another very effective method of fencing in poultry and keeping foxes / dogs out and it has the advantage of being a more flexible method than using netting as it can hug the contours of the ground very easily. This method is not as effective at keeping smaller birds in as it doesn't hug the ground as closely as the netting and they can escape under the lines if they find a dip in the ground.
In summary
With careful planning, and consistent attention to your flock, summertime need not cause any extra worry, just more time to spend outdoors enjoying the better weather and your wonderful chickens. Here at Pipinchick Silkies, we have chickens for sale and hens for sale and like to do our very best to help our customers, whether or not they are new to keeping chickens, with any questions they have on suitability and environment.
Getting mites in your coop is pretty heart breaking, your poor hens will be itchy and uncomfortable. Red Mites along with other mites live on the bird but can
Chickens are becoming increasingly popular as pets in the UK as they are fairly easy to look after, have tremendous personalities and also give a little something back in the form of delicious eggs. We love every chicken we raise on our farm and want to make sure that each home they go to has a good idea of the best way of looking after our beautiful chickens. We are able to give you advice in person or via phone or email to make sure your chickens stay healthy and happy.
Before You Buy Chickens
It is important to get to grips with some basic facts about keeping chickens before rushing out and buying them. Chickens require attention every day, much like any other household pet. You should of course consider the size of your garden and whether it is suited to keeping chickens. Keep in mind, where are they going to sleep, where they will be allowed to roam, how to keep them fed and watered if you are way for a period of time and how to keep them safe from foxes and other potential predators. Once you have decided that keeping chickens is definitely something you would like to do then preparing their habitat before they arrive is important.
Buying a chicken house
This is likely to be the most expensive outlay for keeping your chickens and there are many different sizes and designs on the market available for you to purchase. It is often a case of getting what you pay for and cheaper houses will require regular wood treatments and other maintenance to ensure they are kept in good condition for keeping your chickens safe and warm inside. When purchasing a chicken coop inspect the quality and thickness of the wood which is a good indication of how long the coop will last. It is also possible to build your own coop, if you are so inclined. You should also check the coop has nest boxes, appropriate ventilation and perches for the birds to roost but also keep in mind the box will require regular cleaning and maintenance. And access should be easy for you to do this. The floor of the house can be covered in wood shavings, straw or chopped cardboard to keep the birds warm.
Chicken Access Areas & Safety
Chickens also require access to areas where they are able to stretch their legs. Many people allow their chickens to roam free around their gardens, which is ideal. There is also the option building a chicken run which should be built as large as possible to keep the birds happy. It should also be built securely, again to defend against predators.
We have already covered the importance of keeping your hens safe from predators and a couple of considerations to bear in mind when providing them with a home and exercise area. There are other ways you can keep the animals safe such as an automatic po-hole opener which will automatically open and close the doors of the house based on a timer to ensure that your chickens are safely locked inside the house at night and it will also open in the morning to let the chickens out.
Feeding Chickens
There are some brilliant, nutritionally balanced chicken feeds available to keep your chickens in the best possible condition. Many people believe that you can feed chickens on food scraps and let them forage for the rest, however, it is likely that they will miss out on important nutrients which is why we always suggest using formulated feeds. Layers Pellets are the best solution, although cheaper ones, such as mash, are available. If you are keeping a significant number of birds ensure there is enough space at your feeders, or that you have enough feeders, for all of your birds, as the pecking order may mean that some chickens may miss out on food. There are certain plants, such as rhubarb or potato leaves, that are poisonous to chickens. Ask us for a full list of these items. Keeping your chickens well fed on a nutritionally balanced diet is also good for you as they will produce more eggs!
Keeping your chickens Hydrated
As with any living thing, keeping your chickens well hydrated is of the utmost importance. You should ensure that the chickens always have enough clean drinking water. Similar to with the feeders, you should ensure that there are enough water containers for all of your chickens to have a drink, regardless of the pecking order. Containers should be large enough to last all day, with a bit left spare. Many people also add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the water which is proven to be good for chickens
Choosing Your Chickens
Now comes the fun bit, choosing which chickens you would like to keep. We have a beautiful range of chickens from you to choose from including Silkies, polish bantams, Cochin and more. You can view our buying guide on our website or give us a call and arrange a visit to see the chickens in the flesh!
Keeping Chickens in the Garden – Five Common Myths Debunked
Chicken-keeping really is a fascinating and rewarding world to be involved in and here at Pipinchick Silkies, we know a thing or two about these wonderful birds and just what they are like to look after. We often come across the same questions that beginners to chicken-keeping have and so in this post we delve deeper into the true delights of owning chickens, get stuck into the detail and de-bunk the top five myths!
Myth 1 – Chickens are smelly and dirty!
Actually, chickens are really rather clean and tidy! Of course, any living creature can create a mess, but it really is not the case that keeping a small number of chickens in your garden, if properly looked after, need to be either smelly or dirty at all. You simply need to make sure they are cleaned out regularly and their bedding replaced. If you maintain their coop well, there need not be any nasty odour from your feathered friends at all (and they will probably love you all the more for doing so!). Plus, what mess they do make, in terms of their droppings can be really rather useful if you are into your gardening.
Myth 2 Keeping chickens will attract rats to my garden!
Keeping a few chickens in a coop in the garden is no more likely to attract rats to your outside space than feeding visiting birds, since it is the food source that can attract rodents, rather than actually keeping chickens as such. It is very straight forward to minimise the risk of unwanted visitors, you just need to ensure that any food kept near the coop is properly stored in containers which are rodent proof. Rats are opportunistic and will not hesitate to dig holes in bags of feed to get their paws on it, but a container that cannot be ripped or burrowed into is an instant deterrent.
Use a well-designed chicken feeder for your flock; a treadle feeder is a silent feeder which only releases food for the chickens when they activate it, making it much more effective at keeping the food away from any rodents. This type of feeder also reduces waste since it only dispenses food when the birds want it. Rats are not heavy enough to activate the treadle plate so once your chickens have got the hang of using such a feeder their food is safe from other such visitors.
Of course, removing any eggs from the coop is essential too, so be sure to collect them daily so that any rats are not tempted to get access and take them. Since rats can be dangerous to chickens, you will want to ensure there is no chance of them nesting underneath, so elevate the coop from the ground and make sure to regularly check the coop for holes or gaps that rats could exploit.
Myth 3 – Chickens will be noisy and annoy the neighbours
Unlikely, since hens only cluck very softly, mostly in the morning, or when they are laying eggs or communicating with each other. Some breeds are more vocal than others, so if noise is a concern you may want to select a quieter breed, such as Ameraucana.
If you are worried about roosters, who are certainly rather noisier (and they do NOT only crow at dawn, since their role is to warn of danger amongst other things) then you do not need to keep any of these, your hens will lay eggs perfectly well without them, these eggs are just infertile and cannot develop into chicks. If you do have a rooster, then eggs need to be collected daily and kept in a cool place, so that they do not develop into chicks.
Myth 4 – Chickens will wreck the garden
In fact, chickens can be a real asset to your garden, they will happily eat insects, snails and weeds. They scratch at the soil, which can both aerate it and reduce pests. If they are allowed to roam where you plant too, they will leave droppings which act as excellent fertilizer for many plants. Otherwise, you can add these droppings to your compost to help enrich this.
Of course, free roaming hens are happier hands, so to some extent, space does matter but if you do not want the chickens to have complete freedom in your garden, then they will be pretty content with at least 10 square feet to roam in, adjusted based on breed and coop design of course.
Myth 5 – Keeping chickens will mean fresh eggs every day
Egg production really varies. Some hens take a long time before they become comfortable enough to start laying and then there are significant differences between breeds. Some, such as our Ardennaise Bantams lay more consistently, up to 180 small white eggs a year, or for a more cuddly option, the Bearded Silkie, with up to 100 medium eggs annually. Depending on how much of a pet you want your chickens to be, whether you have children, want a garden companion, all of this will help determine the right birds for you, not egg production alone.
Egg production also varies seasonally, chickens lay fewer eggs during winter due to the reduced daylight hours. Annual molting that chickens undergo will also affect how many eggs are produced as will the general health and age of your hens. If you are interested in keeping chickens just for the eggs then you need to be fully aware that the eggs can be somewhat inconsistent.
Here at Pipinchick Silkies, we have chickens for sale and hens for sale and like to do our very best to help our customers, whether or not they are new to keeping chickens, with any questions they have on suitability and environment. We will help advise you on which breeds are likely to get along, what you need to do to give your birds the best start in their new homes and we offer all our customers 100 percent aftercare too, so if after reading these debunked myths there are any other pressing questions you have, do not hesitate to get in touch, we would love to help you out!
Keeping Laying Hens Healthy in Spring!
Keeping your laying hens healthy as we approach spring, it is important to look at your hens’ overall health and put some provisions in place to ensure they transition from winter to spring with ease. As the daylight hours increase your hens will begin laying again, ensuring they have enough nutrients in their diet and a clean and parasite free environment will be crucial during this period.
Here at Pipinchick Silkies, the team have put together some tips to ensure the best health and wellbeing for your laying hens during this seasonal transition.
1. Clean and Maintain the Coop
– Spring is the perfect time for a thorough cleaning of the coop. Remove old bedding, clean surfaces with a good poultry cleaner, and disinfect with Virkons.
– Check for any signs of wear and tear in the coop structure and repair as needed.
– Ensure proper ventilation to prevent respiratory issues.
2. Dust Bath Area
– Stress due to mites can reduce egg laying by 10-15 percent
– Provide a dust bath area for your hens. This helps them control mites and parasites naturally.
– You can use a mix of sand and diatomaceous earth in a designated area for them to dust bathe.
– This must be kept dry.
3. Check for Parasites
– Regularly check your hens for signs of mites, lice, or other parasites. Treat, if necessary, with appropriate products.
– Consider adding diatomaceous earth to their dust bath, as it can help control external parasites.
4. Spring Diet
- Adjust their diet to meet the increased nutritional demands of laying during spring i.e. higher protein and more vitamin D.
- Provide a balanced layer feed with sufficient calcium.
- Offer fresh greens, vegetables, and fruits to provide additional nutrients.
- Offer additional water-soluble Calcium tonics such as Agrivite Feather Shell and Bone and offer treats with extra oyster shell.
5. Monitor Egg Production
- Keep track of egg production and watch for any abnormalities
- A sudden decrease in egg production or changes in egg quality can indicate health issues.
- Ensure a proper nesting environment to encourage laying in appropriate places.
6. Health Checks
- Conduct regular health checks, looking for signs of illness such as lethargy, changes in eating habits, or abnormal droppings.
7. Provide Adequate Water
- Ensure a clean and abundant water supply.
- Hens need ample water for egg production and overall health.
- Clean water containers regularly to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria
8. Preventative Measures
- Implement biosecurity measures to prevent the introduction of diseases.
- Control access to the coop and run to reduce the risk of disease transmission.
- Quarantine new birds before introducing them to the existing flock.
9. Natural Lighting
- Spring provides longer days, which can positively influence egg production.
- Ensure that hens have access to natural light, every day, during the day.
10. Observe Behaviors
- Spend time observing your flock's behavior
- Healthy hens will be active, alert and engage in normal activities.
- Address any behavioral changes promptly, as they may indicate health issues.
By paying attention to these aspects of care, you can help ensure that your laying hens remain healthy and productive during the spring season. Regular observation and prompt action are key to addressing any health concerns that may arise. For more information about chickens for sale and hens for sale, contact the Pipinchick Silkies team here.
If you want to buy chickens or hens before you make your purchase it is prudent to think about the practical ways in which you can care for them in cold weather. Here at Pipinchick Silkies, we put together five essential things all purchasers should consider:
1. Damp and draught free shelter
Ensure that the coop, where you plan to house your chickens, can stay dry and free of draughts throughout the winter months. Well-insulated coops with closed windows and partially closed vents are a good way to maintain adequate ventilation without creating cold drafts, which can lead to your chickens becoming unwell or get frostbite.
2. Extra Litter Insulation
During colder months you can insulate your chicken house with extra layers of cardboard and bedding. Simply add extra layers of cardboard to the bottom of your chicken coop and then put a very thick layer of your bedding on top, we recommend either a heat sealed treated straw bedding such as Dengi Fresh Bed, or a good quality wood shaving like Mendip New Flake. This will create a warm base for your chicken house, you can then insulate the roof by placing a lined picnic style blanket over the roof on the outside. This will keep your hens toasty warm during colder months.
3. Nutrition
When you buy chickens, preparing stores of good nutrition is very important during colder months. Adjust your hens’ diet by providing higher quality and increased quantities of feed to help them stay warm. Offering cracked corn or grains in the afternoon can provide additional warmth as their body burns the extra calories through the night. Check the coop every day and ensure there is always access to fresh and unfrozen water.
4. Prevent Frostbite
If you're planning to purchase chickens, be aware of the potential for frostbite. Applying petroleum jelly to the combs and wattles creates a protective barrier. Additionally, check that roosts are wide enough to prevent contact between their feet and the cold surface, safeguarding them from frostbite on their toes.
Finally, ensuring good ventilation and gentle circulation of air will help keep the coop smelling good and promote dry air within the coop. Dry air makes it easier for chickens to stay warm and prevents your chickens from getting frost bite.
5. Monitor Egg Production
When you buy chickens for the first time, it is a steep learning curve and whilst it is exciting to see your first egg production, you can expect a natural decline during winter. This said, you should still expect your hens to be laying regularly. Added to this, by collecting your eggs in frequently, you will prevent freezing and cracking. If there's a significant drop in production over the colder months, investigate potential causes such as stress, illness, or nutritional deficiencies in the hens for sale.
By keeping the above tips in mind and factoring in daily checks to your chickens, you can expect happy birds, even in colder weather conditions. Through regular monitoring and adjustments based on your chosen breed of chickens, you will ensure a happy, healthy and productive flock.
For more information about chickens for sale and hens for sale, contact the Pipinchick Silkies team here.
Top Five Accessories for Happy Chickens!
Creating a happy and healthy environment for your chickens involves providing the right accessories. At, Pipinchick Silkies, we sell chickens and hens, but the wellbeing of our feathered friends is truly important to us so our team look the top five chicken accessories that can contribute to their happiness.
1. Nesting Boxes
Nesting boxes are essential for providing a safe and comfortable space for hens to lay their eggs. These boxes offer privacy and help keep eggs clean, reducing the chances of breakage or dirty eggs. A general guideline is to have one nesting box for every three to four hens.
2. Feeder and Water
Proper nutrition is essential for chicken health and happiness. Invest in high-quality chicken feeders such as chicken pecker balls, chicken pecker blocks, seaweed supplements, mixed corn which can be fed to poultry and chicken drinkersthat are easy to clean and keep the food and water fresh. Hanging feeders and waterers can help prevent contamination and spillage. Ensure a steady supply of fresh water and nutritious feed.
3. Dust Bath Area
Chickens love to take dust baths to clean their feathers, control parasites, and enjoy some relaxation. Provide a designated area in your coop or run filled with fine dust, sand, or dry soil. You can also add wood ash or diatomaceous earth for pest control. Chickens will appreciate having a place to roll and preen in comfort.
5. Perches or Roosting Bars
Chickens naturally roost at night to sleep. Providing roosting bars or perches in the coop gives them a safe and elevated place to sleep. Make sure the perches are flat and wide enough for your chickens to balance comfortably. Ideally, allow around 8-10 inches of roosting space per bird.
6. Toys and Enrichment
Chickens are curious birds that benefit from mental and physical stimulation. Consider adding various toys and enrichment activities to their environment. Hanging chicken treat bags, mirrors, or even simple objects like a cabbage or a flock block can entertain your chickens. These distractions keep chickens from getting bored, which can lead to pecking and other negative behaviors.
These accessories, when combined with a clean and safe living environment, contribute to your chickens’ happiness and wellbeing. They ensure that your chickens have a comfortable place to lay eggs, rest, socialise, and entertain themselves. Happy chickens are not only more content but also tend to be healthier and more productive in terms of egg-laying.
Pipinchick Silkies have chickens for sale and hens for sale so please contact the team for more information.
Chickens for Sale: Top Ten Things To Consider When Buying Chickens For A Smallholding
When buying chickens for your smallholding or back garden, there are several important factors to consider ensuring that you choose the right birds for your needs and provide them with a happy and healthy home. Here at Pipinchick, the team has put together the top ten things to consider when buying chickens for your smallholding or back garden:
1. Breed Selection
Begin by selecting a chicken breed that suits your goals. Common breeds in the UK include Sussex, Rhode Island Red, Silkies, Bantams, Orpington, and Leghorn… among others. All breeds do have different personalities and requirements so ensuring you select the correct breed for your small holding is essential. To do this you need to consider factors like egg production, space, housing, breed compatibility and temperament. To help you, you can always use our breed selector.
2. Space and Housing
Plan your chicken coop and run carefully. Chickens need protection from predators and shelter from the weather. Make sure you have enough space for the number of chickens you want to keep. Generally, the outdoor space is more important than the space in the house, as long as you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding house space you should be fine, bear in mind not all birds will roost in the house so floor space is more important when buying flightless birds such as Silkies, frizzled feathered, Brahmas and Cochins as these birds will most likely nest on the floor of the house.
The run space is more important as this is where they will spend the majority of their time, at Pipinchick we recommend 1 mtr sq per bantam or small bird and 2 mt sq per large breed and with giant breeds such as Brahma, Cochin etc… You may need to look at 2.5 – 3mtr sq per bird. At Pipinchick we believe the best set up is a suitable house inside a secure walk in run, this allows you to get in with your hens, interact with them, cover their run area adequately during Avian Flu flock downs and will also allow for easy cleaning and hen maintenance, you can then also utilise the vertical space with perches, swings and climbing ledges for the flight birds effectively doubling you run space.
3. Regulations
Check local regulations and bylaws regarding chicken keeping. Some areas may have restrictions on the number of chickens you can keep or specific coop requirements.
4. Sourcing Chickens
Decide whether you want to buy chicks, pullets (young hens), or mature hens at point of lay (POL). Each has its advantages and considerations. Choose reputable sources that have chickens for sale or hens for sale like hatcheries, breeders, rearers or rescue organisations. At Pipinchick, we ensure all our birds are healthy and vaccinated and we rear all our hens from chicks ensuring they are well socialised and ready for you to have as pets or layers.
5. Health and Biosecurity
Learn about common chicken diseases and how to prevent them through biosecurity measures. Quarantine new birds before introducing them to your existing flock to prevent disease spread, this is relevant if you are buying breeds from multiple places, never buy unvaccinated hens.
6. Feeding and Nutrition
Provide a balanced diet with commercial chicken feeds that meets their life stage requirements (starter crumb, grower, layer). Chickens should be fed the relevant pellet feed as 80-90% of their overall diet. You can then add treats and supplements top, but be careful over treating, too much can cause runny bottoms, fat gain, halt in egg production and can stop your hens eating their pellet feed. Some foods you can treat include, melon, berries, corn, seeds, oats and edible flowers. Do not feed anything from the nightshade family such as potatoes, tomatoes, peppers they can also not have avocado skins or pits, dried beans or legumes, apple seeds, apricot pits or leaves or processed human foods like chocolate, cake etc...
7. Egg Production
If egg production is your goal, consider breeds known for high egg production such as Hybrids, always bear in mind Hybrid chickens will lay prolifically for up to 3 years when they tend to slow or stop completely, this can also be accompanied with additional health problems such as egg peritonitis or egg binding, they also require a lot of room as they are foraging breed and need space. Pure breeds will ley less a week and tend to stop for longer periods, during the winter, however, their natural cycle can continue for up to 10years, they also tend to fair better in smaller areas and like more human interaction. Ensure you offer plenty of nesting boxes that are in quiet, darkened locations and that they are clean, comfortable, and easily accessible for egg collection.
8. Social Behaviour
Chickens are social animals and thrive in flocks. Keep at least two or three birds to prevent loneliness. Breen compatibility is important so always ask your Pipinchick team what breeds can work together or check our Breed Compatibility guide on our website. Observe and manage any aggressive or bullying behavior among your flock, don’t be shy, feel free to ask us for any help needed if you do have bully birds in your flock.
9. Daily Care
Be prepared for daily tasks like feeding, watering, and egg collection. Regularly cleaning of the coop and run and provide fresh bedding once a week.
10. Predators and Security
Protect your chickens from predators like foxes, badgers, weasels, and birds of prey. Secure the coop with strong locks and small gauge chicken wire. Consider an automatic coop door closer to protect your chickens at night, never rely on this soley and always check all of your hens have gone in safely. By carefully considering these ten factors, you will be well on your way to successfully raising chickens on your UK smallholding or back garden. Remember that chickens can be delightful and rewarding additions to your homestead when given proper care and attention.
What Is Feather Moulting In Chickens?
As the nights draw in and the daylight hours reduce your hen may begin going through her annual feather moult. It can be quite alarming when you see your beloved chicken is losing her feathers, the sudden change can be very dramatic and happen overnight. Although there are other reasons a chicken can lose her feathers the main cause is when they go through their annual feather moult. Don’t panic! It is completely natural and apart from some extra feed requirements there is not much to worry about.
Pet Chickens just like other animals go through a natural cycle when they need to reproduce new feather growth. Just like with cats, dogs and even humans, old growth is shed and new fur, skin… feathers are gown. The moulting process allows your chickens to shed old and worn feathers and then re-grow fresh, shiny, new ones. It is a natural cycle and will occur usually at the change of the season from summer into winter as the daylight hours are greatly reduced. The feather moult also allows your laying hens time to rejuvenate their reproductive organs as they will usually stop laying during this time.
How Long Does a Chicken’s Feather Moult Last and What Ages Do Chickens Start To Moult?
In most chickens feather moulting will begin fully once they are about 18 months old, however, some chickens will also go through a juvenile moult this can happen anywhere from 6 months up, a juvenile feather mouth is usually in very small amounts and localised to one area. Once they have a full moult the process from shedding to re-growing their feathers usually takes about 8-12 weeks but has been known to take a bit longer in some breeds.
How Will My Chicken Behave When Moulting?
Most hens will carry on about their business as usual, they should continue eating and drinking, they may even have an increased appetite for protein due to needing more than normal. They will most likely seem their happy cheerful self, although they can be a little aloof. Despite looking like something form a horror movie they will most likely seem unaffected! If at any point they do stop eating and drinking or seem overly lethargic and unhappy then this is likely to be something other than their annual moult. They will also either stop laying altogether or very reduced egg production during this time as they give their reproductive organs a rest to conserve energy to grow new feathers.
Is My Chicken Going Through A Feather Moult? Or Is My Chicken Sick?
There are a few other ailments that can cause a chicken to lose feathers, listed below:
3 Reasons Why A Chicken Can Loose Feathers.
- Mites and Lice. These are one of the main alternative causes for father loss in chickens. Have a very good look at your chicken’s skin, part the under-fluff especially around their back ends and see if you can see any nasty creepy crawlies on their skin. If you have a mite or lice infestation that has caused feather loss you should be able to actually see them and there should also be tell-tale signs of lice/mite debris, paling of the combe and wattle and skin irritation. This should be treated immediately. How to Treat Your Chickens for Lice and Mites.
- Broodiness. This can also cause a hen to lose feathers but is more prevalent in pure breeds and bantams such as Silkies, Pekin Bantams, Polish Hens etc… and less seen in larger hybrid hens. A broody hen will also stop laying; however, unlike a feather moulting hen a broody hen will sit on her nest continuously. Broody hens will sometimes pluck her feathers from localised areas on her body most likely the chest area and the base of her tail, she uses these to line her nest to help keep it warm. Sadly, there is not much you can do to discourage a broody hen but being able to spot the difference between a broody and moulting hen is always good to know as your moulting hen will need a more protein rich diet during her moult.
- Shock Moult Stress. Sometimes chickens suffer with stress, this is more widely seen in smaller bantams and pure breed chickens but can occur in any breed of hen. Their environments are very important to them as well as their flock mates. You may see your hen lose feathers if you have made some changes to their run, house, if there has been a fox prowling at night, you may have introduced new flock members or there has been a sudden loss in your flock that may be felt more deeply by one hen in particular. Look at your set up and watch their behaviour to see what you can do to resolve this.
If your hen is showing no other symptoms of an illness, seems happy in herself and has had a sudden and dramatic feather loss then you can be quite confident she is simply going through the moult.
What Can I Do To Help My Chicken Through Her Feather Moult?
When your chicken moults she will use up a lot of her protein and iron stores in her body. Feathers are made of 80-85% protein so re-growing them will pretty much deplete her of protein, you can help her by increasing the amount of protein you give along side her regular pellet feed. Protein is essential for building muscle and new tissue and as she grows new feathers she will benefit from an increase of natural protein. We don’t recommend using soy products but alternatively use natural healthy sources such as seeds, peanuts (in small amounts), by far the best source of protein are mealworms and crustaceans. You can also add ½ a teaspoon of ginger powder to her regular feed once a day, ginger has been proven to help speed up the growth of new tissue and feathers so this will also benefit her. Alternatively, you could try our specially formulated Feather Moult Pipinchick Forager Treat Mix, created with extra protein, ginger, added B12 vitamins and complexed carbohydrates which will also give your hen an energy boost during her moulting period.
5 Main Symptoms That Your Chicken Is Feather Moulting
- Sudden and dramatic loss of feathers.
- Pale combe and wattles.
- Reduction or even complete stop in egg production.
- Increase in appetite especially for proteins.
- New feather growth.
What Do I Need As A First Time Chicken Keeper?
Thinking of keeping chickens? Not sure what you'll need? Pipinchick have put together an essential check list for the first time chicken keeper.
How Much Space Do My Chickens Need?
If you want to keep chickens the first thing you need to think about is how much space you have. Most of the pet chickens available from Pipinchick need little room and are well suited to a back garden or small paddock. If you want to keep Hybrids then you will need a larger area as they will ruin your garden and create quite a bit of mess, especially through the winter. With Pipinchick’s birds you will need less room and can keep your chickens in a back garden and smaller space, we recommend about 1.5 mtrs square per bird.
Once you have decided how much space you can spare for your chickens you will need to create a run, (your house should be inside this secure area). If you have flightless birds such as Cochins, Silkies or any Fizzle Feather Bantams a 2ft high fence will keep them enclosed. If you choose birds that can fly you will need a 6ft high fence. Make sure you dig your fence wire down into the ground by about 2ft, this will make it difficult for the fox to get in under your wire. We recommend a small gauge wire and double layer if you can, foxy loxy can’t get his paws and snout through a small gauge, if the gauge is larger than 2.5cm he will be able to rip it open.
You can have a grassy run, however, chicken do like to scratch about so we recommend an area within your run that is laid to gravel or bark to allow them to scratch the ground which is a natural behaviour and makes them happy, it will also mean their nails won’t get too long as scratching in the bark or gravel will keep them short.
If you can create a covered section of your run, most delicate bantams don’t really like to be wet and having a dry area will also help with any mud or mess during the winter months.
What Is The Best House For My Chickens?
Housing is very much dependent on what kind of birds you want and how many. Bantams require little room so you would not need a very large house, Cochin and Brahma will need a slightly bigger house and opening. We recommend a starter house that can hold up to 5 or 6 bantams, these are usually about 1.5 – 2 mtrs squared. The house space is less important than the outdoor space as the birds will mainly use this for laying and sleeping. They snuggle up together at night and you’d be surprised how little space they take up when sleeping. If you have flightless birds do not get a house with a ladder as they won’t know how to use it properly and will become stressed if they cannot get in and out easily.
If you have birds that can fly then an Eglu “Go Up” or a wooden house with a ladder is ideal, they will also prefer to roost at night so make sure there are perches inside. This is less important for flightless birds as they will sleep together on the floor of the house. Plastic houses are good because they are easier to clean and keep on top of mites and bugs. Wooden houses are lovely to look at but can be difficult to keep clean. Mites live in wood so with wooden houses if you do not keep a strict cleaning and disinfecting routine can cause problems. Make sure which ever house you choose there is a separate area within for your hens to lay their eggs, this should be off the main sleeping or roosting area.
How Do I Keep My Chicken Run And House Clean?
We recommend a deep clean of your houses every 2-3 months. We use a disinfectant called Virkon, it kills everything! You can buy this in one dose sachets from most agriculture centres or farm shops. It is diluted in a 5ltr garden sprayer.
Remove your birds and take out all their litter and then clean the house with washing up liquid in warm water. Once you’ve done this spray the entire house and run inside and out with the Virkon solution. Leave for 24 hours then you can put fresh litter and your birds back in.
Always use a face mask and rubber gloves when spraying disinfectant.
What Chicken Litter and Bedding Should I Use?
We recommend using sawdust or wood shavings only! Straw can contain mites and bugs and you could be bringing in unwanted guests to your clean and disinfected chicken coop. Sawdust and shavings are heat sealed and then vacuum packed which kills any bugs and nasties.
What Chicken Feeders and Drinkers Do I Need?
You will need a drinker and a feeder, which type you get is up to you. We prefer galvanised drinkers and feeders as opposed to plastic, this is because they last longer and look nicer but this really is up to you. Plastic drinkers and feeders can become brittle and break over time.
There are many different brands but we like the Eton galvanised range, they are a little more expensive, but look good and will last longer. They come in many sizes and colours so follow the guidelines for how many birds you have to which size you get. Remember where there are chickens there are usually rats, it’s a sad fact of chicken keeping. You can minimise this by not over filling your feeders and raising them off the ground.
Can I Give My Chickens Multi Vitamins and Tonics?
We strongly recommend that you use a multi vitamin for your pet poultry, this should contain B12 vitamin. You can buy tonics and multi vitamins from most pet shops nowadays, or you can always go to a farm shop or even buy online. They are very easy to buy and well worth doing! Delicate bantams will need this bi-weekly in their water and then constantly through the winter months.
It will help boost their immune system and keep them strong and healthy. You can also give Apple Cider Vinegar as well. We use a farming brand of tonic with B12, this is only sold in large quantities, but have a look at what is available for the back-garden chicken keeper, there are lots of options available online or in stores.
What Feed Should I Give My Chickens?
Again, this is down to personal choice. We use Fancy Feed as they are a well-known brand for poultry rearers and their quality of feed is good. You can choose any brand you like, even organic if you prefer. The type of feed depends on their ages.
0 – 4/5 weeks use a good quality chick crumb or mash.
4/5 weeks – point of lay (POL) use a good quality rearer or growers pellets.
POL onwards – layers pellets, you can mix some dried corn, seeds and grain into their feed as well.
You can give treats once they are fully grown and on layers pellets, introduce treats carefully as too many can cause diarrhoea.
(for more information on how to introduce treats and new feed please see our FAQ page)
Your Chicken's diet should be made up of 80-90% pellet feed and then you can offer corn and treats as well.
How To Treat Your Chickens For Mites
Getting mites in your coop is pretty heart breaking, your poor hens will be itchy and uncomfortable. Red Mites along with other mites live on the bird but can also live in the wood of the house and can also reside in their bedding. They can cause skin rashes and irritations, lameness, diarrhoea and can even be fatal if left untreated.
Red Mite, What You need To Know
First of all don’t be afraid to glove up and hit them hard, red mites can’t live on humans so you are safe to tackle the issue head on.
Red mite are tiny but will be visible on the birds, they are around the size of a pinprick, grey initially and then turn red after they’ve fed on your hen’s blood!
They live inside the chicken coop, lay their eggs within crevices and cracks, and feed on all parts of your poor chickens whilst they sleep at night including: blood, the feathers, the skin and the scales of your chicken’s skin!
Red mite will take hold of your coop very quickly if left untreated. After being laid, the mite larvae hatch within 2-3 days and are fully grown adults within 7 days, they can then live for 8 months!
How Do I know if I Have Red Mite?
Red mite is pretty easy to see on your hens, check their back end and look under the feather fluff on the skin, if you have mites you will see them. You should check your hens over once every month or so to ensure they are well and looking for
mites is key when you do a health check. There are other signs that you may notice that might lead you to want to have a look for mites on your bird.
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- Reduced egg production
- Lethargic & unhappy birds
- Weight loss
- General poor health, your chickens could develop anaemia due to the blood loss – be on the lookout for pale, floppy crowns as a sign.
- Your chickens may not want to be put away at night since the mites attack in the evening, they are reluctant to enter the coop for fear of being nibbled.
Some of these symptoms could be related to other issues but if you notice any of them it is best to give your hens a good check over.
Can I Treat Red Mite?
YES!
Here is out 3 step guide to treating red mites in your poultry and house.
Step 1.
Take all your chickens out of the house and run and put the girls somewhere temporary for a few days, try to limit the places they go so as not to spread the infestation around even more.
Give each hen a good wash in warm water using a medicated pet shampoo, make sure you rinse each bird thoroughly and pay special attention to their bottom area as this is where mites like to gather. Blow dry the hens fully then cover them in Natural DE powder using gloves you can massage it into their feather base to ensure it makes contact with the skin. Use a DE Puffer for easy application, simply puff the powder directly on to the hen with no mess or fuss.
Step 2
Remove all dirty litter form the hen house and then scrub the house down with a poultry cleanser inside and out, use warm water and a good strong scrubbing brush.
Then, using a Virkon sachet diluted into 5ltrs of water in a garden sprayer, spray generously to disinfect the entire coop inside and out, get in all the corners and at the same time do the entire run ensuring the Virkon solution gets everywhere, (use gloves and wear a mask). Virkon is fantastic we use it on our farm and it will kill everything.
Step 3
Once you have done this you will need to let the house and run dry out unoccupied for 24 hours, you can then put fresh wood shavings back in your coop, do not use straw! Straw can actually contain mites and could bring mites back into your now lovely clean environment. Sawdust or wood shavings are heat treated when sealed killing off all mites and bugs.
Repeat the entire cleaning regime every 2 months or so until you are on top of it and then to maintain good cleanliness going forward repeat the whole process once every 4-5 months or if you spot another mite. A really deep clean will prevent mites taking hold and performed regularly means you should never have an issue with mites again. Ensure you provide your hens with a dust bath that has been treated with Natural DE powder, this will allow your hens to naturally keep mites at bay by dust bathing in this mixture of sand and DE powder. We also recommend applying DE powder direct to you hen with a puffer bottle once every month going forward.