We Have Grumpy Hens
- Michael
- Jun 25
- 1 min read
We want to share a quick update about our egg supply. Lately, we have noticed a slight drop in the number of eggs available. This is because four of our hens have gone broody. Instead of laying new eggs, they are focused on sitting on a clutch of eggs, trying to hatch chicks.
What Does it Mean When Hens Go Broody?
When hens go broody, they stop laying eggs and start incubating the eggs they have already laid (or that their neighbors have laid). This behavior is driven by instinct. The hen will sit almost constantly on the eggs, keeping them warm and turning them regularly to help the embryos develop. This can last for about three weeks, which is the typical incubation period for chicken eggs.
They stop eating and drinking very much. They're grumpy. They fluff their feathers, growl and peck if disturbed.
What Does This Mean for our Egg Customers?
It doesn't mean much other than a slight dip in availability. We don't intend to let any eggs hatch this season, so we will keep collecting from underneath the grumpy hens. Eventually they will give up and resume laying. Fingers crossed.
Thanks for reading and supporting us!
It’s interesting to learn about the chicken’s behavior and the resulting production. As non-contact customers, we don’t often think about how each hen (or brand of chicken) has personality traits affecting their daily contribution. It is only through the attentive care provided by the farmer (that would be you) that we come to know the science and behind the scenes humdrum of these incredible little food makers.. Thanks for sharing!!!