chickdoula
Chirping
- Apr 19, 2021
- 18
- 57
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I have two gorgeous white Silkie pullets who just came into lay, and I have sweet smelling nest box herbs that I added to the nest boxes for them. I am new to chickens but am very well-read and I have not come across the behavior of my silkies ANYWHERE.
The bearded one started laying first, and as she was preparing herself, she kept picking up the various herbs and throwing them on her back - almost like self-medicating??? I could not believe my eyes and made sure it was the herbs that she picked up. Now the non-bearded has begun to lay and she also does this! It is the strangest thing I have ever seen. I can’t blame them, because the herbs smell divine, but it was very purposeful and interesting. Has ANYONE ever observed this behavior in their flock? Does anyone know why they do this?
Thank you,
Gina
The bearded one started laying first, and as she was preparing herself, she kept picking up the various herbs and throwing them on her back - almost like self-medicating??? I could not believe my eyes and made sure it was the herbs that she picked up. Now the non-bearded has begun to lay and she also does this! It is the strangest thing I have ever seen. I can’t blame them, because the herbs smell divine, but it was very purposeful and interesting. Has ANYONE ever observed this behavior in their flock? Does anyone know why they do this?
Thank you,
Gina