Don't take the EGG!

[Grits&Eggs]

Didn't realize it but I made a horrible mistake, I didn't even think about it...the girls were making a ruckus (i forgot to fill their veggie feeder) - after dropping off some food, I opened the nesting box door and since they were standing in the nest boxes I reached in and took out two eggs - omg, the next hour was miserable, my girls were running around yelling louder than I have ever heard and frantically digging in the nest grass. I finally went and put an egg back in the nest and dang if the screamer didn't settle immediately and sit back down - whew, the lesson I learned is - don't take the egg before the chicken is out of the nest!!!!!!!!

 

[KikiLeigh02]

That's too funny! It depends on the chicken whether or not I'll steal the eggs from under them. I take the egg(s) out from under one of Jersey Giants EVERYDAY. She doesn't even fuss at me. One of my Buff Orpingtons (the one that isn't broody ) fusses at me if I take the eggs out of the nest box next to her. Silly bird.

 

[Grits&Eggs]

I have Buffs as well, I will try it with them just to see! thanks KikiLeigh02

 

[rosemarythyme]

If you have fake eggs, just leave them in there instead of the actual eggs and the hens should be happy enough seeing them.

 

[pennyJo1960]

mine hate fake eggs run them out of the box like within 2 minutes

 

[Kristyh119]

One of my ees will go flying out of the box if I reach under her while she is in there. she is the only one out of 18 laying hen that really hate it but it more seems like she’s just startled. A few will stand up like they can’t stand the thought of my hand touching a single one of their feathers. They other dozen don’t react.

 

[aart]

You've got to 'train' them to it, all but one of mine will allow me to take eggs.
I don't do this to the pullets until they've been laying for at least a couple weeks.
I do swap out the real egg for a fakie or golf ball.