Well written article, thanks!
Our old hens are special, having survived predator attacks, weather events, injury and illness. She should be allowed to live her life out comfortably. She can contribute to the younger flock's development plus still entertain with her antics. My oldest hen is 9 now!
I'd like to know more of what to look out for in old age. So far, only thing I've noticed besides not laying is she is a little slower than she used to be. You dont look at her and think, wow, you're old!
I'd like to know more about old age in poultry. Are there age signs we can see? Comb, feather, leg/foot changes? Do they pass without warning or is it a visible process?
For fun, I've added a picture of my 9 year old black laced silver wyandotte, Little Sis.