Why do different hens lay in the same nest ?

[SCJLV]

Found two eggs in the same nest today in two different breeds . When there are one for each one anyone know why.

 

[cybercat]

This is normal. Hens prefer to lay where another has layed for they know it is a safe spot. This is why we put a fake egg or two in each nest box. That way they all get used.

 

[kla37]

My hens all have one favorite next box. 8 chickens, 3 boxes, all identical, but they all want to use the same one. Silly chickens! That's normal, from what I've read here.

 

[snugglebird]

My 5 girls take turns using the same nest box. We have 4 nest boxes though. It's funny becuase each one announces that she's finished by cackling. The next one runs over and takes her place.

 

[Bengalcats1]

See my picture? These two Always share a nest and sitting and raising babies, there are 2 babies under them

 

[SCJLV]

Thanks for the help just getting started did not know what was going on.

 

[Fred's Hens]

Apparently, instinct drives them to build a "clutch" or pile of eggs. The broody hen, who will hatch them, doesn't particularly care who's eggs they are. Laying eggs is not for us. It is for survival of the species.

The "queen bee" the alpha hen, likely has the "best" dna or thought to have preference in breeding progeny, thus the lower ordered hens want their eggs piled on with hers, helping to assure their eggs get brooded.