Chickens Laying Around?

[cluckkatie]

Hi all,

I found my chickens just now laying together in a huddle in their run outside. It isn't cold here, and they have food and water. Is this a sign of sickness or are they just being plain ol' lazy right now? They've never done this before and I am a new chicken keeper (and overly concerned first-time Mommy!)

 

[imnukensc]

Normal chicken behavior and nothing to worry about.

 

[getaclue]

Is there dirt? They could be trying to dustbathe. Sometimes chickens just lay down for awhile. Unless they continue this way, and don't want to resume any activities in awhile, I'd say it's pretty normal.

 

[Amer]

Is there dirt? They could be trying to dustbathe. Sometimes chickens just lay down for awhile. Unless they continue this way, and don't want to resume any activities in awhile, I'd say it's pretty normal.

X2

 

[imnukensc]

Sometimes my chickens lay on the front porch to just sunbathe. Spread their wings out, flop on their side, and just take a short snooze.

 

[21hens-incharge]

The things our birds do that freak us out!

I am thinking sunbathing or dustbathing too.

The first time I saw one of mine with that wing all stretched out, eyes closed and totally deceased looking........

As soon as I approached she sprung to life and bout startled me into a heart attack!

I agree as long as they go back to regular chicken antics all is well.

 

[PirateGirl]

I agree, possibly sunbathing/dustbathing, especially alarming looking when the flop on their side and stick out one leg!

 

[Ribh]

Agree with sunbathing/dust bathing ~ though mine will just cuddle sociably for no apparent reason.

 

[getaclue]

Lord yes....years ago, the first time mine fell down in the dirt, and began flopping around, I went into full panic mode. My daughter assured me it was normal, and they were getting their dust bath on. Don't worry, they've got more surprises in store for you too.

 

[WthrLady]

Totally normal. THey are sun and dust bathing. Looks like their having a fit, but they're just having a spa day.