Chicken behavior He. help

[Andrew Ryan]

I'm going to sound so stupid, but I had just thought of that after I posted this. She did have a few eggs this morning after all

And yes she's in her spot

 

[Andrew Ryan]

I'm a little confused about her setup. Could you upload some pictures for us?

I built an elevated co-op and run, it just didn't have an enclosure. So basically it was cool straight to backyard

 

[sourland]

Not stupid - just something you have not experienced before. Broody hens will set even if they have no eggs.

 

[007Sean]

Howdy

Welcome to Backyard Chickens. Enjoy your time here with us!

 

[Teila]

I hope you enjoy being a BYC member. There are lots of friendly and very helpful folks here so not only is it overflowing with useful information it is also a great place to make friends and have some fun.

Including your general location on your profile will assist others. Location, climate, season etc can be important factors when members are responding to any questions you may have and vice versa.

 

[4 ever Orpington]

Hi! New member here. I had 1 backyard chicken named Pidgey who was totally free range and would even come hang out with my cat and dog on the porch and share food occasionally, and even come inside. Shes basically a pet. Well, she IS a pet. We live in a small, tight knit community and nobody has fences. We've had her for about 2 years with no complaints about her wandering into other yards. Then, last week someone bought a house to rent out across the street and low and behold - the cops show up saying I need to build an enclosure. So I did. But then we noticed that after being a bit manic trying to escape, she calmed down. The next few days were ok, but she would occasionally try an escape again. Now, she's been in her coop all day and night and barely eats. We got her two younger (maybe 7-8month old chicks about ready to lay eggs) to see if she'd cheer up. Does anyone have any advice? I hate to see her that way and i went off on the guy across the street; I wanted to hit him. I thought maybe when it's rented out I can let her free range again, and when my daughters are outside playing they let her out and put her back when they come in. But I need advice on how to proceed or what to do with Pidgey. Any advice is appreciated. Thanks in advance

 

[drumstick diva]

If you don't have a rooster, her eggs will never hatch. She will wear herself out trying to do so. Maybe you can buy a few "fertile" eggs and swap them for hers, so she can be fulfilled as a mama.