Mourning Hen

IamHereNow55

Hatching
Joined
Jan 12, 2026
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
Points
2
I'm a first-time chicken owner; I started it with four hens who basically grew up together (they're from the same supplier).
Recently we lost two of the hens to a predator while they were out on the property, we were out so we didn't see what happened, but we assume our hen, her name is luna, saw one of the hens get killed (she was hiding in the neighbor's yard, which has never happened before).
After the attack Luna has slowly become more lethargic and overall quite depressed. It's been roughly a week now and she hit rock bottom the other day. We don't think she's ill, just mourning the loss of her flock mates.
As I stated before we are first time chicken owners, ive been tube feeding her since she now refuses to eat and provided her with towels for comfort. Is there anything else we can do? Shes been staying in the coop with her remaining flockmate during the night and we've been taking her out during the day so she can have her space to cope with her mourning. Apologize for the long paragraph and thank you in advance for the help.
 
I'm sorry for your losses. Yes, chickens grieve the loss of others, more pronounced in smaller flocks. The remaining two should form a tighter bond once their order is re-established as to who is now the leader. I would leave them together.

As others have mentioned, check her for injuries, treat for shock and provide extra attention if you have the time and are able; just by being a presence and sitting with them can help.

Congratulations on being a new chicken owner. It is a rewarding experience but not without challenges as you're learning the hard way. The more time you spend with them, the more time you will want to spend with them. It's addictive that way.
 
Thanks for advice, if I do find any injuries how should they be treated? Or should I just take her to the vet?
 

New posts New threads Active threads

Back
Top Bottom