Lost my little runt today and flock is struggling

lv9777

Songster
Aug 29, 2021
190
353
131
Michigan
I have two adult hens and wanted to expand my flock, so I let one girl go broody and hatch out 4 eggs. I ended up with 3 roosters and a runt. The runt was an assisted hatch. As everyone grew and he did not, the entire flock took turns caring for him. When Mom stopped mothering at 10 weeks my top hen took over. I even caught the roosters keeping him warm during the day. Sadly, he passed today very quickly and without warning. He was fine yesterday. I think his little heart just could not keep up. He was not developing correctly in addition to being small. I was able to be present and he just went to sleep in my lap permanently. Now that I am done crying, I am concerned about the rest fo the gang. My top hen who "adopted" him kept calling for him the rest of the day and started to bully my other hen. Everyone is a bit out of sorts.
Any suggestions for how to help everyone adjust? Is this normal behavior?

This was my sweet Lazarus. Had a good although short life. :)
 

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I think they are going to call. Ive had best friends in the flock and suddenly one dies. Sadly, the other will call for days and go through a small depression. It's a really sad part of life. Keep me posted and I am so very sorry for your loss 😔
 
Thank you for the condolences. It is so sad. I did not expect a full life, but this was sooner than I thought. I am glad for the 12 weeks we had. Never thought I would see my bossy barred rock care for a disabled chick. Lazarus was good for her and sweetened her up a bit. He will be missed by all.
 

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