Eggs?

[Mfeind]

I have 3 americaunas that free range. The 4th disappeared (probably a predator) around mothers day. Up until the 4th disappeared I was getting 3 eggs a day. Now I am lucky to get 1. They are about 2 years old. Can I keep them in the coop for a few days to see if they are laying elsewhere? They roam about 7 acres and I can't find a nest. They have food, water and Oyster shells on demand inside the coop. The ato door is open 7-7.

 

[AidKD]

Either keeping them in the coop or trailing them. They could also be taking a little break from laying. If they are in fact laying in hidden nests then keeping them in the coop for a few days should make them start laying in the boxes again.

 

[aart]

Can I keep them in the coop for a few days to see if they are laying elsewhere?

Might take more than a few days, but yes.

Free range birds sometimes need to be 'trained'(or re-trained) to lay in the coop nests, especially new layers. Leaving them locked in the coop/run for a week or so can help 'home' them to lay in the coop nests. Fake eggs/golf balls in the nests can help 'show' them were to lay. They can be confined to coop and maybe run 24/7 for a few days to a week, provided you have adequate space and ventilation, or confine them at least until mid to late afternoon. You help them create a new habit and they will usually stick with it. ..at least for a good while, then repeat as necessary.