With the dark season gradually encroaching on us egg laying drops off a little. But right now we are down to one egg a day.
Looking at all possible factors, the darkening season, a few cooler nights, the dewormer medication, the purposeful change in diet to less treats, and most importantly, the loss of one of their own have combined into a perfect storm that throws everything from laying to pecking order out of whack.
It has also triggered a seasonal molt, and the timing couldn’t be better! It is common for birds to molt at least once a year and industrial eggs producers even purposefully trigger a molt. The hens don’t lay much if at all during this time, but it refreshes their egg laying in general.
And here lies the evidence there of strewn all about the coop floor. Next weekend will be a full cleanout anyway, so all of the seasonal factors have lined up on this one.
The flock is out in the yard as of this chilly October morning enjoying dirt baths and some autumn foraging.
I’ve asked them how they’re getting along and why they’ve chosen now to molt, but their responses to my inquiry are as various as the individuals that make up my flock! One of the hens insists it is a protest over the diminished amount of special treats. Another out of mourning for her lost friend, most of them just felt they needed a new outfit for winter and at this rate, they will be well decked out by the time the weather turns cold in earnest.
I asked Coq Au about it personally, since he has lost his resplendent long tail feathers. He glowered at me hatefully and said “None of your damn business and I’ll thank you to have the common courtesy not to mention it."
And thus, the season turns on. Everyone is busy about preparing for the season of ice and at the same time, the season of renewal.
As ever, I stand awed by the majesty of the process of nature even if it transition itself leaves the flock looking scraggly and ugly. We are ever poised on the precipice of transitional moments.
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