Cuckoo Maran exhibits "urge to brood"-- refuses to eat or drink

[laportlandia]

Portland, OR Of the two Cuckoo Maran hens and two Silver Lace hens (all 13 mos old) in our "Chick 'n Barn" in fenced back yard, one Maran (otherwise healthy) decided to fall into what one member calls "urge to brood." She simply sat motionless on her breast and rump, refused to eat dry food, grit, chopped dandelion leaves, drink water. No distractions such as noise or varmits. Finally, I brought her in and put her in a dog kennel in a well-lit back room yesterday. At end of this afternoon, I reached in and offered her choppen dandelion leaves. I think she ate two tidbits. That triggered a long, vigorous comment on her part. What is going on? No egg/s, unlike those she laid for months! We are new to all this and enjoy the beautiful eggs. THANKS to anyone willing to offer advice! Fred

 

[jenjscott]

She does sound broody. Keep her well lit during the day with no nest, a wire bottom cage usually works best. They will usually eat and drink a least once a day or every other day. Make sure it is available if she gets ready.