What should I do if my hen keeps returning to the same nest? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your hen keeps returning to the same nest, broodiness is a common reason. She may be trying to sit on eggs, or she may simply be drawn to a dark, quiet nesting spot. It’s worth checking for broodiness signs, but there can be other causes too, so look at the full picture rather than assuming one explanation.
Things To Check
1. See whether she stays in the nest for long periods, puffs herself up, or growls or pecks when you approach.
2. Check whether she’s collecting eggs, sitting on empty nest space, or repeatedly returning after you remove her.
3. Look at her appetite, drinking, droppings and general energy, as a hen that is ill may also spend more time in the nest.
4. Check the nest area for warmth, darkness, bedding comfort and whether it feels like a safe, quiet hiding place.
5. Make sure she isn’t avoiding other hens, being bullied, or going to the nest because it’s the calmest place available.
6. Look for signs of egg laying problems, such as straining, a swollen abdomen, hunched posture or obvious discomfort.
7. Check whether she’s losing weight, slowing down, or spending less time scratching, roaming or dust bathing than usual.
Common Causes
Broodiness is the most common cause. A broody hen often wants to sit on eggs, guard a nest, and stay put for long periods.
Some hens keep returning because the nest is simply the most comfortable, quiet or secure place in the coop.
Less commonly, a hen may be unwell, stressed, or uncomfortable, and the nest may be where she chooses to rest.
In some cases, egg laying issues can make a hen linger around the nest more than usual, especially if she seems strained or unsettled.
What To Do
Start by removing eggs promptly so there’s less to encourage sitting. Keep an eye on how long she stays in the nest and whether she’s still eating, drinking and moving about normally.
Make the coop and run as calm and practical as you can. A comfortable, well-managed environment can help you tell whether this is a nesting habit, broodiness, or something else.
If she is clearly broody but otherwise well, many owners simply monitor her closely, keep routines steady, and avoid reinforcing the nesting habit more than necessary.
If the behaviour is new, worsening, or comes with other signs of illness, treat it as a health concern rather than a behaviour problem.
When To Contact A Vet
Speak to your vet if your hen is off her food, weak, straining, breathing oddly, has a swollen abdomen, or seems painful. It’s also sensible to get advice if she keeps returning to the nest but is clearly unwell, or if the behaviour is sudden and unlike her normal routine.
Products That May Help
For hens that keep returning to the nest, a clean and well-managed coop can make day-to-day monitoring easier and support better flock hygiene while you work out what’s driving the behaviour.
Related Questions
How do I tell if my hen is broody?
Should I remove eggs from a broody hen?
When should I be concerned about a hen sitting in the nest too much?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.