Magso12 Posted November 20, 2011 Share Posted November 20, 2011 Hello there. Last month my chief hen died. Henrietta ruled the roost and was a great character, always into mischief! Now, the two that are left (Molly and Matilda) seem utterly lost without her. They've stopped laying eggs, one of them is losing loads of feathers despite having moulted earlier this year. They sit around all day under the hedge and don't seem interested in anything. I've just been out to give them some worms which they used to love, but they didn't touch them. I want to get two new hens, but I don't dare at the moment in case I stress the other two out completely. Has anyone else experienced the same - if so can you offer any advice please? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Plum Posted November 20, 2011 Share Posted November 20, 2011 If they are moulting they do get a bit low but I would check them over for any other health problem and worm them. No hen in their right mind rejects mealworms so you may have another problem. May be worth checking their accommodation for parasites as well which would drain their strength. I would be guarded about doing introductions while one is in a heavy moult, the stress may bring on other problems. perhaps give them a tonic like lifeguard. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Magso12 Posted November 20, 2011 Author Share Posted November 20, 2011 Thanks for replying. I tend to worm them on a regular basis, but will do it again tomorrow, just in case. Have today added poultry spice totheir feed and added a calcium tonic to their water. I had originally planned to introduce two new chooks in Feb/March next year - think I will stick to that plan, they're so under the weather, they are just not up to the stress of two new girls! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...