pullet laying down

[chickenKel]

Please don't laugh at me. I'm a total newbie! Have taken a seminar and read a few books, and now my family owns 3 pullets, about 15 weeks old. We're loving them, but we don't know enough about what's "normal." Today the Barred Rock spent a lot of time laying down in the run, scratching and pecking. She almost looked like she was digging a hole/making a nest, but the way she flopped down to the ground looked odd. She appears to be eating fine and by tonight she had settled herself back on her perch in the coop. I don't see anything strange about her outward appearance. Could something be wrong with her? If so, what sorts of problems should I be looking at? Thanks for your kindness to the new kid on the block.

 

[fshinggrl]

It sounds as if she is taking a sun/dirt bath!

They lay, often with one leg stretched out on their side just relaxing in the sun, often in a hole that they dug themselves! Don't worry, it's a common question!!

 

[smokeykk]

yes, dirt or sun bath... and I have 2 sayings i would just like to say...

Don't get all your exercise jumping to conclusions (THIS DOESN'T APPLY TO THE OP)

There are no stupid questions, just inquisitive idiots (APPLYS TO ME!!!

AND

 

[nelli21]

That reminds me of when I first saw my hens taking dust baths! They wear themselves out digging holes, then flop down in the most awkward looking poses. They love it- very bizarre for chicken newbies though!

Also, a word to the wise. This is one of the most destructive things a hen can do! I have little craters all around my house and garden where their favorite dust bath spots are. Those girls can DIG!

Nelli

 

[dawg53]

I enjoy watching them kicking up dirt and dust giving themselves a bath. Albeit my backyard looks like a miniture minefield where the minature mines have exploded!

 

[welasharon]

I love it! For the first time in years I have no weeds in my flower beds!....course there are fewer flowers....and some craters...and lots of dust...still it's better than having to pull weeds!
sharon

 

[flowergirl60]

Dust bathing for sure. When I first saw my hens do it I LMAO.