Older Hen Self Isolating

[OkieBirdFam]

Hi everyone!

I have a Barred Rock hen, estimated to be 5-6 years old self isolating. She is eating, drinking, and having normal bowel movements. It is February here in Oklahoma and unseasonably warm, but nice. No mites or parasites visible. Previously had an injury to the back of her head from mating, but it has since healed. She will move about the paddock with the rest of the flock (12 other hens, 1 rooster), but hangs out by herself more and more.

A little backstory: we started off with 4 hens in 2022 when we lived "in town." This BR, Betty, was one of them. In 2024, we moved to this property with Betty and another hen (the other 2 had passed away). We got our existing flock as chicks shortly after then about 8 months later, the other hen passed away. Betty is the last "OG" and I wonder if she is feeling depressed or left out in anyway. The flock has a pecking order and she is by no means near the top, but we do not have issues with excessive aggression/bullying.

I know hens can live well past the age of 6, but I suppose she is considered older. Does anyone know why else she might be self isolating? I have been giving her extra treats and company as much as I can in case she is feeling down, but I am open to more ideas!

Thank you!!

 

[StinkyAcres]

As long as there are no other signs of illness, like she is not sitting down excessively or standing with her tail down, etc., I wouldn't worry about it. I had an old hen (9 years) who was the last of "her" flock and she enjoyed doing things by herself. I wouldn't say it was depression; she still had chicken friends, but it's just what she preferred.

 

[OkieBirdFam]

As long as there are no other signs of illness, like she is not sitting down excessively or standing with her tail down, etc., I wouldn't worry about it. I had an old hen (9 years) who was the last of "her" flock and she enjoyed doing things by herself. I wouldn't say it was depression; she still had chicken friends, but it's just what she preferred.

Thank you - this was encouraging and very likely to be the case for our girl!