Hard molt during winter freeze

[Arnolds2638]

Poor girl. I have two who dropped all their feathers just as the temperatures plummeted. Do you have an unheated garage? I worry about big swings in temperature being a bit of a shock so prefer to bring into the garage that stays above freezing but not as warm as the house. Maybe she could have a half-way house in the garage before going back out?

We do have a detached un-heated garage. The hen house may actually stay warmer than the garage, but I could always set her up more of a modified brooder in the garage as a transition. Thanks!

 

[Arnolds2638]

We do have a detached un-heated garage. The hen house may actually stay warmer than the garage, but I could always set her up more of a modified brooder in the garage as a transition. Thanks!

husband tried to measure. Hen house is still only 30 degrees!

 

[AGeese]

I would probably shield whatever side you have open regardless especially if you're any place like where I am, that gets it from all directions.

 

[Arnolds2638]

Just to give an update. She stayed inside for less than a week. She was so much happier out bossing around her sisters. As soon as she had coverage of her skin with tiny feathers, and I confirmed the hen house was 40 degrees even in 20 degree weather, I put her back out. She is now nearly fully feathered again and starting to put back on some weight! Thanks for all of the advice and commiseration!

 

[TooCheep]

Glad to hear it. I had a similar situation with one of my girls and handled it the same. I don't recommend bringing them in as a general rule, but it makes sense in extreme cases.