Concerning behaviour in hen, illness or something else?

[hatched_]

Just thought I'd post a quick update. The vet checked her over, no obvious signs of any mites or lice infestation - she said feathers looked more like they had been snapped off, possibly indicative of bullying. Skin underneath looked healthy, heart and lungs sounded great. She prescribed a broad spectrum antibiotic and told us to keep her isolated from the other hens for a few days so she could build some strength back up - as she wasn't eating as much. We got her home, put her in a seperate area, and within an hour she died. Thinking possibly the stress of it all would have contributed somewhat. Thanks everyone for your advice!

 

[Mrs. K]

Well definitely, the stress could have killed her, but she might have been old too. Birds don't live forever. I am very surprised the vet did not think that was mites.

Keep an eye on the rest, and start looking for chicks! Even though birds do die, it is really a fun hobby.

Mrs K