Hen being tormented while trying to lay 1st egg.

[5templetonchicks]

2 months ago I added 3 new pullets to my 2-1/2 year old flock of 2. It’s been a bit rocky but finally things have calmed down and they get along fairly well, unless treats are involved. I knew that my gold laced Wyandotte was getting ready to start laying, when she crouched for me last week. Well, lo and behold, I saw her heading into the coop this morning, but immediately one of the oldsters went in after her, and she came flying back out. She tried to go in again, and the same thing happened. I finally picked her up and placed her inside, and locked the other 2 out. I’m hoping she’ll lay her first egg, so she knows the routine. Will this behavior sort itself out. The 2 oldsters can be really nasty, and I won’t be around to keep her safe while she is laying. Any help/advice would be appreciated.

 

[PirateGirl]

They should sort it out. There are sometimes small squabbles over things like the favorite nest box, especially if two girls want to lay at the same time. If you don't have more than one nest box, consider adding a second one so they have options.

 

[ChickNanny13]

2x PirateGirl .... How many nest boxes are available? No matter how many you have with the same bedding, there's always a "favorite". I had 2 but they all prefer this one so removed the second. I limit myself to 4 - 5 depending on the breed.

 

[5templetonchicks]

I have 2 nest boxes now, and both of the oldsters usually use the same one. I have the feeling they’re just miffed that someone new is going to be using them. They don’t have an issue all sleeping inside the coop at night where the nest boxes are located.