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Severity 1/5metabolic

Annual Molt

A normal annual feather replacement, usually in fall as daylight shortens. Birds look ragged, stop laying, and act subdued. Not an illness.

AI illustration of Annual Molt
AI illustration of Annual Molt

Mix of AI illustrations and anonymized real cases shared by community keepers. Visual severity varies by bird, age, and stage.

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Symptoms

  • Feather loss in patches
  • New pin feathers visible
  • Drop in egg production
  • Quiet behavior
  • Reduced appetite

Treatment

Switch to a higher protein feed (20 percent or grower ration) until new feathers come in. Cut back on treats. Avoid handling, new pin feathers are tender. Lay resumes once feathering finishes.

Prevention

Molt is healthy and cannot be prevented. Support nutrition and keep stress low while it runs its course.

Typical recovery

30 to 90 days with prompt care.

Sources