The Poultry Keeper

phil and charlotte · Joined: 01 Aug 2005 Posts: 114 Location: South Somerset

One of my Black Rocks seems to have started laying whilst perched. I've recovered 3 eggs from beneath the perch, 2 soft-shelled (one hen is a late starter and only just getting used to the idea) and one smashed - naturally it hit the only exposed bit of hard flooring. Apart from putting a cushion beneath them, is there anything I can do? I've 2 nest boxes shared between 4 birds.

NannyP · Posted: Fri Oct 21, 2005 9:56 am Post subject:

My first thought is to remove the perch for a while, until she gets used to using the nest box. It won't hurt for them not to perch, and I cannot think of another idea Very Happy

CP · Posted: Fri Oct 21, 2005 10:22 am Post subject:

You could also try placing a golf ball or dummy egg in a nest box & put her in there to see if she gets the idea! Confused

Deb_Moderator · Joined: 13 Apr 2005 Posts: 3661

Mine will do this occasionally also. Infact, yesterday I found one beneath the perch. It usually sorts itself out soon enough.

summayah · Joined: 14 Apr 2005 Posts: 4289 Location: luton

I've found a couple on the floor in the girls' house and yesterday found one underneath one of my 'would be' broodies ~ needless to say it wasn't one of hers ~ she's a pekin and it was about twice that size and a different colour........but she's not proud, any egg will do to sit on!

Aussie Chick · Posted: Fri Oct 21, 2005 11:15 pm Post subject:

Mine have stared laying in their own nest, they are so proud, all with the scratching around and building it, then I whip in there and take the eggs away Wink