If you’ve been keeping chickens for any time, you’ve probably experienced a few episodes where your chickens seem to be losing feathers. It’s always a bit alarming, but usually, it’s nothing to worry about. In this post, we’ll look at common reasons chickens lose feathers and what you can do to help them get through it. Read on to learn more!
*This post may have affiliate links, which means I may receive commissions if you choose to purchase through links I provide (at no extra cost to you). As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read my disclaimer for additional details.
What Causes Chickens to Lose Feathers
One of the most frustrating things that can happen to a chicken keeper is finding out why their chickens are losing feathers. Chickens rely on their feathers for insulation, waterproofing, and camouflage so when they lose them we want to make sure it’s for a healthy reason. A chicken losing feathers can signify poor health or an underlying condition so it’s important to find out why they might be losing them. Some of the most common reasons why chickens lose feathers include:Molting
Chickens typically molt (lose and grow new feathers) once or twice a year. The amount of daylight can influence molting, so it’s not unusual to see molting occur in the fall as the days get shorter. While molting is a natural process, it can be stressful for chickens and may cause them to lose more feathers than usual. However, overall it is a common and normal thing. Here’s an educational video going over what to expect when it comes to chicken molting: Read More: What Time of Day Do Chickens Lay Their Eggs? Knowing when chickens lay eggs can prevent broken eggs at collection time!Mites
Feather mites are tiny parasites that live in the shafts of feathers. They cause irritation and itchiness, leading to excessive preening and feather loss. It’s important to get rid of these as soon as possible to ensure the safety and health of your chickens.Lice

Stress
Like humans, chickens can experience stress from time to time. Common sources of stress for chickens include changes in their environment (such as a move to a new coop), sudden changes in temperature, predator scares, and overcrowding. When stressed, chickens may start picking at their feathers or engage in other self-destructive behaviors that can lead to feather loss.Nutritional Deficiencies
A lack of certain nutrients in the diet can lead to feather loss. Nutritional deficiencies are often seen in chickens fed a poor diet or not given enough access to greens and other fresh foods. Nutrients from a well-balanced diet are used to grow their feathers thick and shiny.Diseases
Several diseases can cause feather loss in chickens, including Newcastle disease, infectious bronchitis, and avian influenza. If you suspect your chicken is sick, contact a veterinarian for help. Read our related article, Why is My Duck Losing Feathers? If you have ducks in your flock, here’s why they could be losing feathers.Signs That Your Chickens May Be Sick
Chickens are susceptible to various illnesses, many of which can be fatal if left untreated. Fortunately, several telltale signs can help you identify a sick chicken before it’s too late. If you notice any of the following symptoms in your chickens, make sure to contact a veterinarian as soon as possible.Loss of appetite
A healthy chicken will have a hearty appetite and eat almost anything you put in front of it. If your chicken suddenly stops eating or only picks at its food, it may be sick.Lethargy

Sneezing or Coughing
Chickens can catch colds and other respiratory infections like humans. If you notice your chicken sneezing or coughing, take it to the vet immediately.Discharge From the Eyes or Nose
Clear and watery discharge is usually just a sign of allergies. However, discharge that is greenish or yellowish could indicate a bacterial infection.Changes in Behavior
Sick chickens often exhibit changes in behavior, such as aggression or depression. If you notice your chicken is acting out of character, have it checked out by a professional. Read More: How Do Chickens Sleep at Night? Learning more about chickens can help you to take care of them properly, so knowing more about sleep patterns, eating, and their bodies can be beneficial.How to Treat a Chicken With Missing Feathers

Parasites (Mites or Lice)
These tiny bugs can cause your chicken to lose feathers as they crawl around and bite the skin. Determining if there are mites or something else can determine your next course of action. If you see any evidence of parasites, treat your chicken with an appropriate insecticide.Poor Nutrition
Ensure your chicken has access to a balanced diet of grains, greens, and protein.Stress
Chickens are susceptible to stressors such as changes in their environment or poor social interactions. If you think stress might cause your chicken’s feather loss, try providing a calm and relaxed atmosphere, and ensure that your chicken has plenty of opportunities to socialize with other chickens. These steps can help your chicken recover its lost feathers and stay healthy and happy. Read More: Why Have My Chickens Stopped Laying Eggs in Summer? Stressors can lead to a halt in egg production, along with other causes.How to Prevent Chickens From Losing Feathers
There are several reasons why your chickens may be losing feathers. However, there are some ways you can try to prevent feather loss in chickens. Here are some tips to prevent feather loss in chickens:- Provide a balanced diet with all the essential nutrients for chicken health.
- Keep the coop clean and free of parasites. Perform regular checks for mites, lice, and other pests.
- Treat any fungal infections promptly.
- Give your chickens plenty of space to move around and exercise.
- Provide perches for your chickens to sleep on at night. Sleeping on the ground can cause feather damage.
- Reduce stressors in your chicken’s environment. Too much noise or activity can cause chickens to lose feathers due to stress. Try to create a calm and peaceful environment for your flock.
- Check for parasites. If your chickens are itchy or scratched, they may have mites or other parasites. Treating them with an approved poultry pesticide will help eliminate the problem and prevent further feather loss.