Molting is a natural behavior of birds where older, worn feathers are replaced with new feathers. During a molt, birds reduce nutritive intake and enter into a rest period where there is a cessation of reproductive activities. During the molting period, the feathers are replaced and the tissues of the ovary and oviduct rejuvenate. Molting can extend the productive period of a flock. Egg production, shell strength, and albumen thickness are improved by a molt. Commercial layer flocks can be induced to undergo a molt by using appropriate management, nutritional and lighting programs.
