2009 Omlet cube and run for sale

[MaxBaz]

Of the original four girls I got nearly three years ago, I just have the one left - Nan (an Isa Warren). I have seven girls in total at the moment, but I do worry about this one in particular. She is absolutely fine in herself - going through a moult - but perky and bossy and eating/drinking well.

 

About a week or so ago she laid a large lash - which I think from reading other peoples posts mean her laying days are either over or coming to an end. She is not laying at present. My question is - I'm worried that the lash is a sign that she is also nearing the end of her time.

 

Any suggestions/reassurances of what I can do to keep her in tip top health as long as possible. As said - she is absolutely fine at the moment.

 

Thank!

[Chortle Chook]

What's a 'lash'

If a chicken is coming to the end of her firtility surely that only means she is middle aged.

[skye]

Hiya,

 

I think chickens can lay lashes at any time, but as you say, sometimes they can become more common when they're coming to the end of their laying career. I've got a couple of ageing hybrid girls, one about 3.5 one nearly 3... just going through their moult like yours so they look like they're on their last legs, but hopefully they'll get through another winter and see springtime

 

I think it varies from hen to hen how long they live after they finish laying. I think a hybrid can live a year or two even.

 

With my old girls I just keep an eye on them in the cold, ie try to minimise draughts/damp in the run, make sure they are keeping their weight up by eating plenty and giving them the odd tuna/extras, but otherwise they are fine just being treated the same as the rest I think.

 

I've also taken to adding supplements to the water, but obviously they all get the benefit of that. Currently I'm using Nettex Moult Tonic - good results. I also use ACV, Avi pro, Calcium and Oregostim supplements in rotation, depending on the circumstances, to keep their immune systems up and make sure they've got all the minerals they need.

 

Hope Nan continues to live a long and happy life

skye x