Behavior

[Lwaddle]

i have 3 hens but one will empty the nest box of all the bedding as soon as I clean it and put in fresh. They are 61/2 mos and are not laying yet. Combs and face areas bright red. Could this be a pre-laying behavior.

 

[Lady Lionheart]

I don't know for sure but I think it's a good sign! Does your nest boxes have a lip? So when they are in there, they don't accidently scratch everything out?

 

[Lwaddle]

Yes it is like a square bowl. Maybe I am filling too full.

 

[Lady Lionheart]

Yes it is like a square bowl. Maybe I am filling too full.

Hmm. Maybe. My ladies are not laying yet. 19 1/2 weeks old but I'm watching for any new behaviors. So exciting! I hope you get eggs soon!

 

[Lwaddle]

Me too. We had hens several years ago and it seemed they were laying by this age but they were different breeds. Just waiting!

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Some young pullets do that. I assume yours is close to laying. I would also assume she will continue that behavior for a few months after starting to lay. Some younger pullets seem more vigorous about scratching in the nestboxes. Those that do it will often grow out of it eventually.

 

[rosemarythyme]

This is normal behavior from pullets that are getting closer to laying. Some of them are very vigorous in kicking things around as they explore the nest boxes. Once they begin laying they should stop/