Would our roo dying stop the hens from laying?

[blessedmamato3]

Hey all,

Our roo died a week ago (we don't know why - it was nothing obvious). Our hens went from laying 8-14 a day to 1 or 2. We've looked for hiding spots, eaten egg leftovers, snakes, etc and nothing. Could it be because of our roo and if so, how long could be expect the "strike". They won't be a year old until July and have no signs of molting.

 

[TwoCrows]

It is possible that they notice that he is missing. I had to take a hen to the vet recently and the entire flock knew she was gone. I have had parrots mourn the loss of other cage mates. So it is entirely possible they are a bit confused.