Is this possible?

[mrsmaonaigh]

I have a hen that hasn't started laying yet. She should be getting close but for the last week she hasn't wanted to come out of the coop. She seems to be the popular lady with the rooster and he is ALWAYS hounding her. Usually when I go out the back door all the chickens come running because they know they are going to get treats. She doesn't come out at all. She is usually hiding under the coop or up on the perch inside the coop. Is it possible for her to be broody already or is she just hiding out?

 

[teach1rusl]

I'd say she is being terrorized by the rooster (since you mentioned he's after her all the time), and so she is hiding in the coop to avoid him. Stress doesn't lend itself to egg laying, so that's not good. If this behavior keeps up, you may have to consider different options (rehoming the pullet, containing the rooster at least part of the time, rehoming the rooster, etc.).

 

[midget_farms]

Ditto - she is avoiding the rooster or other chickens. I used to have a young rooster that would hound the hens. Sneak up on them etc. Finally had to get rid of him. Can only have 1 rooster you know.

 

[mrsmaonaigh]

Thanks. I guess we'll be doing some culling this afternoon.

 

[ranchhand]

How many hens do you have for the roo? That can make a difference, too. Recommended ratio is at least 10 hens for each rooster.