you can still be able to tell if a hen is laying without finding eggs. Her bottom, (I know its gross if you are new to this) if her vent is stretched out and pale, she's laying. Also, under her vent you can feel the pelvic bones. If its more than 1 finger in width, she's prob laying. Legs. The hen's leg color will wash out and become paler looking. If she's got bright yellow legs, she's prob not laying or isn't a good layer. Also check her feathers. if they all appear shiny, silky, and unbroken, same thing. If they are dry, broken, and washed out, she is in lay.