Why are my hens reluctant to roost? | arlo.® Atlas
Share This Guide
Read time: 3 minutes
Overview
If your hens are reluctant to roost, red mite is one possible reason, especially if they seem restless at night or avoid certain perches. But it’s not the only cause. Coop discomfort, perch setup, lighting, crowding, stress, illness or feather damage can all play a part.
The good news is that you can check a few simple things yourself before deciding what to do next.
Things To Check
1. Look at whether the hens are avoiding roosting every night or only at certain times, such as after a clean-out or when the weather changes.
2. Check the perch itself for rough edges, splinters, narrow rails or a height that may be awkward for some birds.
3. Inspect the coop at dusk or early morning for tiny moving specks around cracks, joints and perch fittings, as these can be a clue to red mite.
4. Look for signs of disturbed birds such as restlessness, feather picking at night, pale combs, or hens preferring to sit on the floor.
5. Check for droppings, damp bedding, poor ventilation or a build-up of dust and dirt that could be making the coop less comfortable.
6. Watch whether one hen is being pushed off the perch, bullied or excluded from her usual spot.
7. Make sure the birds are otherwise acting normally, with a good appetite, normal droppings and steady movement.
Common Causes
Red mite: This is a common reason hens avoid roosting, because mites can irritate birds at night and make the coop unpleasant for them.
Perch or housing discomfort: A perch that is too high, too narrow, slippery or rough can make roosting difficult, especially for older or heavier hens.
Stress or social pressure: Bullying, a new bird, a change in routine or a noisy environment can make hens less willing to settle on the perch.
General unwellness: If a hen feels off colour, she may choose to stay on the floor rather than hop up to roost.
Other coop issues: Damp, poor ventilation, darkness in the wrong places or a dirty housing setup can all affect whether hens want to use the perch.
What To Do
Start by checking the coop carefully, especially cracks, perch ends and corners where red mite can hide. Clean out bedding, remove dust and make the housing easier to inspect.
Review the perch setup too. Hens need a stable, comfortable place to settle, so make sure it suits the size and age of your birds.
Keep an eye on the flock for a few evenings. Note which hens avoid roosting, whether they stay on the floor, and whether there are signs of scratching, restlessness or bullying.
If one bird seems quiet, weak or not herself, make a note of any other changes such as appetite, droppings or movement. That pattern can help you decide whether the issue is mainly housing-related or part of a wider problem.
Good routine coop hygiene is worth keeping up, because a clean, dry, well-ventilated house can make birds more willing to use the roosting area.
Products That May Help
If red mite or coop hygiene is part of the problem, keeping the housing clean and easier to inspect can be a helpful part of your routine. This collection supports general poultry care and coop management.
Related Questions
How do I know if red mite is in my chicken coop?
Why are my hens sleeping on the floor instead of the perch?
How often should I clean out a chicken coop?
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.