Hen placing straw on her back

[Lemon-Drop]

For some reason my 3 year old hen has started tossing straw on her back. Does anyone know why this is? She is an EE named Yuki. I haven’t observed this before, but it might not be new. I’m just really curious. I tried to get some pictures. Sorry That they’re so blurry. I’m just really curious.

 

[cherrynberry]

For some reason my 3 year old hen has started tossing straw on her back. Does anyone know why this is? She is an EE named Yuki. I haven’t observed this before, but it might not be new. I’m just really curious. I tried to get some pictures. Sorry That they’re so blurry. I’m just really curious.

oh, my chickens do it ALL the time after they lay an egg! I am guessing its part of chicken instincts?!

 

[Lemon-Drop]

oh, my chickens do it ALL the time after they lay an egg! I am guessing its part of chicken instincts?!

Oh, ok! I just thought it was odd as I’ve never seen it before.

 

[Lemon-Drop]

Oh, ok! I just thought it was odd as I’ve never seen it before.

And I just ran out and checked... she hasn’t laid yet today.

 

[Ribh]

It's a nesting instinct. Broodies will do it. Some hens will do it while laying. Some will do it roaming the run.

 

[cherrynberry]

And I just ran out and checked... she hasn’t laid yet today.

I have had some chickens do it even if they are not laying as well...its perfectly normal

 

[Lemon-Drop]

Ok! Thanks! Just thought it was kind of interesting! Thanks for all the help!

 

[PeepOverlord]

I have had some chickens do it even if they are not laying as well...its perfectly normal

Thanks for the answer! One of mine randomly started choosing *specific* pine needles and *special* pieces of hay to put on her back. I assumed she was either camouflaging or decorating herself

 

[GoldieOrpington]

My EEs do this too. Right around laying time.

 

[PeepOverlord]

My EEs do this too. Right around laying time.

What do you mean "around laying time"? As in when they're old enough to lay, or during the time of day they lay? Thx