My young hen

[123darwick]

I am new to all this, but having a great time. I dont know much about chickens and I am a little worried about one of mine.

I have four chickens, all about 28 weeks old, they all started laying about 6 weeks ago, once one started they all wanted a go. Bit one of my girls has stopped laying and is spending all her time on her own, she looks a bit washed out but eating and drinking ok, no visual signs of illness ( that I know of) Any ideas ??

Thanks

 

[Eggcessive]

Have a look at her all down where the feathers come out of the skin over especially around the vent for any lice or mites. Mites leave a bit of dirt or eggs behind. Feel her belly and you can also insert a gloved and lubricated finger into her vent to check for a stuck egg. The stress of starting lay with some high production breeds can kill some. They may have internal laying issues. Are your girls on extra calcium (crushed oyster shell or eggshells) besides layer feed? If you have Tums or a calcium tablet you can crush it and give one to her. If she has an egg stuck you can try soaking her in a warm bath.

 

[123darwick]

Thanks for the info, much appreciated . I will look at her when I get home, not sure about the vent intrusion!!! but I suppose I need to do these things. If it is lice or mites whats the best treatment??

 

[123darwick]

forgot to say, yes they are on crushed oyster shells, and I will try the calcium