1 year old chicken died

[nr134pa]

Hi

First time poster.

Our 1 year old chicken has been missing for the last 2 weeks, not returning to the run and coop before dark, like our other 2 hens do. She has been appearing 2-3 days later out in the yard with the other 2 hens. She then disappeared again for a few days.
The mystery was solved recently when we found her on a branch in Laurel bush and on the ground underneath were 10-15 eggs! Quite a shock as the 3 of them have not been laying for a while (over winter).
We have been trying to collect the eggs for a few days but she has been on the branch so not wanted to disturb her. Today when going to collect them, she has died. Sitting on the floor and head collapsed.
Anyone know what might have caused her to die?
Thank you.

 

[redblack10]

Hi - I am sorry you lost your young hen. I have "lost" just a few hens, over the years, and each has been found, brooding eggs. One was gone for two weeks, was really thin and stinky, and the eggs were cracked and rotten. I found her under a pallet, when I smelled her! After a bath, food, water, and my broody pen, she was (and is) fine. Others have announced where they are brooding by their funny, broody cluck. Any time one of your babies is missing, please find her and put her to bed. I have traipsed through snow and cold rain with a headlamp to find one or two who missed "lights out". If your girl was away from food and water, perhaps she wasted.
Ann

 

[Amy chicks123]

I’m sorry for your loss