Hens won't come out of the coop.

[WA23]

Two days ago, I gave away three roosters. That left me with only two hens. They were all siblings and about 8 weeks old. Now the girls won't come out of the coop since that happened. I lured them out with a bit of scratch this afternoon. They ate that up and then went back inside. Is this normal? How do I break this?

 

[Ladysonja]

More than likely your girls are pouting about their brothers moving on...

I would suggest, giving the girls some scratch again tomorrow to get them out of the coop and locking the door for a couple of hours. You may have to do this for a couple of days.

It will take some time, but they will get over their pouting ways... Chickens do not like change... and taking the roos away is a pretty big change in the girls mind - smile!

Good Luck!

 

[Three Cedars Silkies]

They probably don't feel as secure as they did with their "protectors" around. They'll come around, but it will take some time.

 

[milleryardchx]

its a big scary world out their for them with out the boys holding down the fort they will get over it but you might have to give them treats to get out the door the first few days