Why Has My Hen Stopped Laying and Gone Broody? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your hen has gone broody, stopping laying is very common. Broodiness is a natural nesting behaviour, so the change may be normal rather than a sign of illness. That said, if she seems unwell, loses weight, or stops eating and drinking properly, there could be something else going on as well.
Things To Check
1. Check whether she is sitting tight on the nest for long periods and acting determined to stay there.
2. Look at her appetite and water intake to make sure she is still eating and drinking normally.
3. Notice whether she is fluffed up, dull, weak or less active than usual.
4. Check her body condition if she will tolerate handling, especially if she seems lighter than before.
5. Look for signs of trouble such as diarrhoea, discharge, dirty feathers, swelling or an unusual smell.
6. Check the nest area for eggs building up, damp bedding or poor hygiene.
7. Watch whether other hens are disturbing her, pecking her, or preventing her from moving about normally.
Common Causes
The most common reason is broodiness itself. When a hen goes broody, her hormones shift and she often stops laying so she can sit on eggs.
Seasonal changes can also play a part. Laying may slow down during moult, shorter daylight hours, stress, or after a change in routine.
Less commonly, a hen may stop laying because she is under the weather, losing condition, parasited, or dealing with a reproductive problem. Those causes are more likely if she seems quiet, unwell, or different in herself rather than simply broody.
What To Do
If she seems healthy apart from being broody, keep an eye on her and make sure she has easy access to feed, water and a clean, calm environment. Some owners choose to discourage broodiness by removing eggs promptly, limiting nest access, or giving the hen a separate, comfortable space away from the nest area.
Keep her routine steady and monitor her closely for any changes in behaviour, droppings, appetite or body condition. If she starts to look unwell rather than just broody, get her checked sooner rather than later.
When To Contact A Vet
Speak to a vet if your hen seems unwell, is losing weight, has stopped eating or drinking, has a swollen abdomen, is straining, or has discharge, diarrhoea or a strong smell. These signs suggest it may be more than normal broodiness.
If she is just broody but otherwise bright, eating and drinking well, it’s usually reasonable to monitor her at home.
Products That May Help
Keeping the coop, nest box and surrounding area clean can make broodiness management easier and helps support good flock hygiene while you monitor her.
Related Questions
How long does broodiness usually last in hens?
Can I still collect eggs from a broody hen?
How do I tell broodiness from illness in a hen?
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.