submissive behavior in chickens

[preciouschick]

I have chickens. No rooster. I have 13, 6 are laying. I have hand raised them and can pet and pick them up. I went to pet one of the layers and she "squatted" down. I read this is submission to me because I don't have a rooster. So, I am basically the rooster? It is the funniest thing. And that's how I know who my layers are.Plus I have caught them laying also.
Another question...My first layers eggs are all twins. (2 yolks) Is this normal? And they have gotten quite large.
thanks for any input.

 

[chickenlittle21]

When they squat down when you pet them that means they're laying or are going to lay soon. They will do it if you have a rooster or not.

 

[preciouschick]

Just what I thought. thanks.

 

[aart]

My first layers eggs are all twins. (2 yolks)

Double yolks are pretty common, especially with high production hybrid birds.

So, I am basically the rooster?

Well, not really..... but squatting is part submission to dominance and part willingness to be mated.