What temporary dietary adjustment is beneficial when Leghorn hens enter their annual molt?

Switching them back to a high-protein starter feed (around 20%)

The annual molt, typically occurring in late summer or early fall, is a period where Leghorn hens channel significant energy resources into regrowing a complete set of feathers, a process that is biologically taxing. To support this intense demand for building blocks, their nutritional requirements temporarily shift upwards. While mature laying hens normally require a layer feed with at least 16% protein, during the molt, owners benefit from increasing this level substantially. The recommended adjustment is to temporarily switch them back to a high-protein feed, similar to a starter feed, often containing around 20% protein. This higher concentration of amino acids provides the necessary fuel for rapid and robust feather development, ensuring the bird is ready for strong egg production once the molt concludes.