18 month old BR died last night

[ace6175]

I didn't even know that she was really ill! She was in the nest box at night instead of on the perch. I checked for any mass (like a stuck egg) and found none. she didn't seem to be suffering, but how could I tell? I made myself a note to check on her this morning and she was cold on the floor.
How can I find out what killed her? I don't want all my other chickens to die from the same thing.

 

[slackwater]

I'm so sorry - but sometimes you just don't know. She could have been egg bound, injured in some way, leukoid leukosis - and just because she died doesn't mean the others will. Sometimes chickens just...die.

 

[CMV]

Agree with slackwater. Sometimes chickens just die with out any signs of anything being wrong with them. Sorry for your loss.

 

[SassyKat6181]

I'm sorry about your loss.

There is no charge for USDA vets to work with you to conduct an investigation. Call 1-866-536-7593 and you will be put in touch with a local contact.
You can also check out http://healthybirds.aphis.usda.gov for more info.

 

[ace6175]

Thanks for all the support! I just went out and checked on the other chicks, they seem fine. Talked to the State veterinarian, a necropsy is just too expensive (take it to a nearby vet, they would ship samples 4 hours away). My husband just buried her.
Wish I had paid more attention, she was in the nest box for at least an hour before night time. I thought that maybe she was eggbound, but didn't think she would die!
I know that chickens die from all kinds of problems, just didn't expect it so soon.
RIP Spocky, you were a sweet, gentle chicken that never hurt anyone.

 

[RhodeIslandRedFan]

I am sorry for your loss. I too lost a hen suddenly today - no signs of illness as of last night when she went to roost, and dead by noon today. I now know how devastating a sudden loss can be. Best of luck with the rest of your flock.