Does a Broody Hen Prompt Egg-laying By Others?

[FormerCityGal]

I have five hens and for the past several months have averaged 2 to 3 eggs a day. A few days ago, one hen went broody. Since then, I have been getting 4 eggs a day. There is only one nesting box, so two cram in there when it's time to lay. No rooster. Does a broody hen prompt egg laying by the others or is that just a coincidence?

 

[aart]

Probably coincidence.
How old are hens?
Is the broody staying in your only nest all day and all night?
Might want to add another nest.

 

[FormerCityGal]

Hi aart,
I'd say the hens are all at least a 1.5 years old. Yes, she is in there day & night. I pull her out in the morning and put her out in the run to eat, where she perks up and feeds happily. Otherwise, she is in her zombie-state in the box. I can put another box next to it for the others - or try the Broody-buster idea.

 

[aart]

Hi aart,
I'd say the hens are all at least a 1.5 years old. Yes, she is in there day & night. I pull her out in the morning and put her out in the run to eat, where she perks up and feeds happily. Otherwise, she is in her zombie-state in the box. I can put another box next to it for the others - or try the Broody-buster idea.

If you want her to hatch eggs for you, then give her some fertile ones.
If not, I'd go the Broody Breaker Crate route.