Autumn might well be all about golden leaves, mists and mellow fruitfulness. But for your hens, it’s moulting time. Feathers fall, laying slows, and the sudden chill can catch both birds and humans off guard. But don’t panic. Most autumnal changes are perfectly normal. Still, it’s a good moment to check in on your girls’ health, diet and daily routine.
Here’s what to look out for – and how to keep your flock healthy into the colder months.
Soft-shelled eggs aren’t always a red flag
If you’ve spotted the odd leathery, paper-thin or crumpled egg in the nest box lately, don’t be alarmed. In autumn, hens divert calcium to grow new feathers during moulting – which can mean a temporary dip in shell quality. It’s not uncommon, especially for older hens.
Nevertheless, soft-shelled eggs can occasionally cause complications. Does your hen seem lethargic? Fluffed up? Is she sitting for long periods in odd places? She may be struggling to pass an egg. In this case, do revert to our Hen Helpline for support.
Otherwise, a few small tweaks to her diet can work wonders…
Tweak their diet for stronger shells and smoother moults
Autumn is a great time to fine-tune your hens’ nutrition. A few pointers:
Stick to a good-quality layers’ pellet as their main food. It’s specially balanced with calcium and protein to support both laying and feather regrowth.
Limit treats, especially if your hens are getting fewer daylight hours to forage.
Consider a short course of Zolcal D (it’s a liquid calcium and vitamin D₃ supplement) in their drinking water if you’re seeing consistent soft shells.
You’ll also notice their appetite increase during moulting. Don’t worry – they’re not just being greedy! Growing feathers is energy-intensive work.
Prepare the coop for damp, dark nights
Autumn brings longer nights, falling leaves – and more potential for mud, mould, and opportunistic pests. A few pre-winter jobs to tick off now:
- Check the coop and run for any signs of damage, damp or draughts.
- Replace any soggy bedding with fresh, dry material—wood shavings or hemp are good options.
- Patch up any holes that could let in predators or rats.
- Make sure your feeders and drinkers are raised off the ground to stay clean and dry.
And remember: ventilation is important, even in colder weather. A well-ventilated coop reduces condensation and keeps respiratory problems at bay.
A final note…
If you’re new to hen keeping and feeling unsure about any of the above, don’t be afraid to ask for advice. Our Hen Helpline is here to support you – whatever the season.
Autumn might bring a few extra feathers and softer eggs, but it’s also a lovely time to enjoy your hens. With a few simple adjustments, you’ll keep them healthy, happy, and ready for winter.
