New Member, Have a Sick Hen

[JacobMaxwell]

I'm new to BYC and I have a question about one of my chickens. I have six red sex-links that are all about fourteen or fifteen months old. Lately, I've only been getting five eggs (which isn't the norm), and one of the hens keeps ruffling her feathers and avoiding the other birds. Today she was standing alone in the run when she suddenly dropped a shell less egg. They always have oyster shell available so it couldn't be calcium deficiency. Thanks in advance for any help/ideas.

 

[4-H chicken mom]

Hi and from Ohio. So glad to have you aboard. Shell-less eggs are normal in new layers. Their bodies are adjusting to laying, and getting things worked out. Give them some time and it should work itself out. umbup

 

[Mr MKK FARMS]

Welcome to BYC!!!

Glad you joined us!!

 

[sumi]

Hello and welcome to BYC

Shell less or soft shell eggs are usually caused by stress, some diseases, lack of calcium in the diet, problems absorbing calcium and new layers are more prone to lay them, as does old hens. I think your hen might be sick... Judging from her behaviour. Post in the Emergencies and diseases section:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/f/10/emergencies-diseases-injuries-and-cures

and give as much detail as possible. Her behaviour, the egg, what does her poop look like, how long has she been doing this etc. I may be wrong, but ask anyway. Good luck!

 

[redsoxs]

Greetings from Kansas, JacobMaxwell, and welcome to BYC!

 

[sourland]

Welcome to BYC. Good advice from Sumi.

 

[weimarmama]

&

from Alabama. Glad you joined us.

 

[liz9910]

from California, I agree with sumi's advice.

 

[Dnetschke]