Chickens Noit Laying

[LeeInLeetonias3]

Hello everyone. My wife and I have 21 chickens that were laying daily. Now, we get only 2-3 eggs. Free range with plenty of food/water. The only real changes is that we picked up a rooster to help protect the flock (we have hawks flying overhead daily). Any idea why they're not laying???

Lee in Leetonia

 

[BantamFan4Life]

 

[redsoxs]

Greetings from Kansas, Lee, and

! Great to have you in our community! Changes in a flock's daily life - a new coop, a predator scare, or the addition of new flock members - particularly a top-of-the-pecking-order rooster - will disrupt egg laying. Should be getting back to normal soon. Another possible consideration...about 1/2 of my birds don't like to lay in their nesting boxes in the coop when it is hot like it is now. They like the cool dark bushes in the planters on the front porch. Listen for the egg song coming from parts of your property where they free range - you might find a clandestine clutch!! Also, look in dark secluded areas for hidden nests. Good luck to you!

 

[liz9910]

Welcome to BYC! https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/423023/why-arent-my-chickens-laying-here-are-your-answers

 

[sourland]

Welcome to BYC! https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/423023/why-arent-my-chickens-laying-here-are-your-answers

Welcome to BYC. Chickens hate change - the addition of the rooster may have precipitated the drop off in egg production or your hens may be ready to start a molt.

 

[drumstick diva]

How is the new rooster doing with his ladies? If he is very aggressive towards them or bullying - that may have scared them out of laying.