Can anyone explain this hen's behavior??? Video

[Three Cedars Silkies]

OK, here is the link to the Youtube video that I took today.

This is my free-range silkie pair. The hen was doing the weirdest thing...what does this mean??

She is picking up pieces of leaves, etc and putting them on her own back...She isn't broody right now.

 

[Matt A NC]

I have a cochin that starts doing that a few weeks before she goes broody.

Yours may not be broody now, but that may change very soon.

Matt

 

[Sir Birdaholic]

Yep, getting ready for broodiness!

 

[4-H chicken mom]

Wow, I never knew that. See, that is why I love this site. You learn new things everyday.

 

[sfw2]

The right accessories are SO important! LOL

 

[Three Cedars Silkies]

Quote:

 

[LeghornLisa]

What does her behavior have to do with going broody? Is she trying to make herself a nest?

 

[emys]

Sometimes a hen will do that just after she has laid an egg too, but not usually so vigorously. It's some sort of residual instinct about concealment on the nest.


Edit: concealment of herself on the nest - so she won't be seen. Ground nesting birds often pull leaves, grass, etc over themselves.

(Funny video - good documentation of behavior!)

 

[ThePolishPrincess]

Yep, if she's not broody, she wants to be.

I also have some hens that will do that and bring back what's still on their backs to their nest for decoration, lay their egg, and leave. But considering she's a Silkie, and has that determined look to her, I'd say she is looking to be a mommy.

 

[Iowa Roo Mom]

Wow. That is perhaps the funniest, and cutest thing I have ever witnessed

Thanks for sharing- something I didn't know, either.