She isn't laying, what can I do?

[HA]

I have a one year old Australorp chicken. I thought she would be a champion layer but she has not been laying. She has all the characteristics of wanting to lay but the only thing she has popped out was one teeny tiny egg last November on the coldest day of the winter. She does the squat and often times I will see her go sit on the other gals eggs after they have laid. She is shyer than the other two chickens I have. She isn't as eager to meet me at the gate or jump at the chance to get a treat. She is very skittish. I also notice she doesn't snuggle up close to the other two gals in their house. She is kind of a loner. Does anyone know what I can do or is she a lost cause? Will a visit with a rooster help?

Thanks.
HA

 

[babymakes6]

No, a rooster will not help. Unfortunately, some hens just don't lay eggs very often. Have you tried a high-protein feed?

 

[babymakes6]

By the way-

 

[Attack Chicken]

from Indiana!

Not sure whats up with her

 

[schellie69]

Are you sure she is not laying? I have 2 that lay the same color of egg and really can't tell them apart unless I happen to see who was on the nest.

 

[teach1rusl]

My girl who doesn't lay is kind of a loner too. Like yours, there was an egg or two (I'm pretty sure) around December, but that was it. I wonder if the others know something is wrong, and that's why the "loners" are somewhat shunned? I've simply concluded (in my case) that she may never lay...that her egg making equipment is not functional for some reason. My breed is only supposed to be a so-so egg layer, but BAs are usually pretty good (my BA generally lays 5-6 eggs/wk). I'd give it a few more weeks, and then decide whether you'll keep her or not.

 

[4-H chicken mom]

and

from Ohio. So glad you joined. Australorps are usually very good layers. Have you check her over real well to check for mites/lice? How's your weather been? Good luck

 

[NonnasBabies]

&

from Louisiana! Glad you joined!

 

[satay]

I would suggest like someone else did that perhaps she is laying and your just not seeing it. BA's are great layers usually and

.

 

[MSDeb]

Welcome to BYC, this site has something for everyone.