Why is my broody hen staying flat over the eggs even after they are removed?

Read time: 3 minutes

Overview

A broody hen may keep sitting flat even after the eggs are removed because the broodiness instinct can linger for days or sometimes longer. In many cases this is normal behaviour rather than a sign something is seriously wrong, but it’s worth checking for other reasons if she seems unwell, weak or unusually quiet.

Things To Check

1. Check whether she is still making a nest-sitting posture, puffing up, clucking softly or trying to return to the same spot.

2. Look for signs of poor appetite, reduced drinking, weight loss or a droopy, unsteady appearance.

3. Check the vent, feathers and skin for dirt, discharge, parasites, redness or swelling.

4. Notice whether she is passing droppings normally and whether they look very loose, reduced or absent.

5. Feel whether she is overly hot, cold or unusually fluffed up compared with the rest of the flock.

6. Check if she is staying in one place because of competition, bullying, stress or a change in the coop or nesting area.

7. Think about how long she has been broody and whether the behaviour is getting better, staying the same or worsening.

Common Causes

The most common reason is that the broodiness has not fully passed yet. Some hens stay committed to the nest behaviour even after the eggs are removed, especially if they’ve been sitting for several days.

Stress or habit can also play a part. A hen may keep returning to the nest box if it still feels like the safest or most familiar place.

Sometimes a hen that looks broody is actually unwell, uncomfortable or weak and is simply choosing to sit still. Reduced appetite, poor droppings or a dull appearance make this more worth checking.

Less commonly, another health issue such as pain, egg-related problems or a heavy parasite burden can change behaviour and make a hen linger in a nest-like posture.

What To Do

Start by removing any remaining eggs and making the nest box less attractive for a little while. You can also limit access to the nesting area and encourage her to rejoin the flock, drink and eat normally.

Offer fresh water, a normal balanced feed and a calm environment. Keep an eye on her energy, droppings and appetite over the next day or two.

If she is otherwise bright and active, the behaviour may settle gradually on its own. If she seems weak, keeps isolating herself or the posture doesn’t improve, it’s sensible to get advice.

When To Contact A Vet

Contact your vet if she is not eating or drinking, has reduced droppings, seems weak, swollen, painful or unsteady, or if the flat sitting is continuing and doesn’t look like straightforward broodiness. A vet can check for underlying illness or egg-related problems.

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