Why have my hens stopped laying their eggs in the coop?

[jen61871]

Hi
3 of my hens have all of a sudden stopped laying in the coop and have made a nest near the edge of the woods and I don't know why.
They are young but have been laying in the coop for 2-3 months now without issue. Nothing has changed as far as how the coop is kept clean, etc
Several days ago we got rid of our rooster who was only here for about 3 weeks. Could that have something to do with it?
I also have a broody hen right now as well but this is the second time she has been broody and she is not aggressive in any way to the other hens nor does she try to take their eggs-she just assumes the nesting position.
One other thing is that my hens are all free range, they only get locked in their coop at night to keep them safe.
PLEASE I ask for tips and advice as I am not sure how to break this or what to do or why it's happening.
I also would really like to not have to confine them if I don't have to because then all my girlswill have to be confined and they are used to roaming free.
Thanks

 

[Pork Pie]

Seems a little strange. You may wish to consider keeping the hens in the coop until around lunchtime - by then they should have laid. Do this for a few days and hopefully they will get the idea.


Good luck

CT