[kirstie1978]

Hi everyone
I have 2 bantams, a silky and black Orpington I think she is. The silkie has gone broody 2 days ago but was laying until then, however it appear that the other hasn't layed for a week. I have searched the garden for her usual alternative spots to no avail. I had a red mite infestation which is now under control (one of the reasons I think she decided to lay elsewhere) but since treating them and the coop I have not had a single egg from her.
I know chickens can become egg bound. She seems fine in herself so I'm not really sure what's going on. I know reduced sunlight can cause a decrease in eggs but she's only a year old and it's not that dark and gloomy!! Haha!
Any advice? Since the accident I'm very tight on cash and so a trip to the vets for a check, although possible, is ideally avoided unless required. As last time I wanted to take her she turned out to be broody, I thought I'd check first!
Thanks so much

[Lindeggs]

If she is generally looking alert and healthy, I don't think a trip to the vet is needed.

Have you noticed whether she is losing feathers recently - do you see them lying around in the run?  Even though the days aren't really dark and gloomy yet, autumn is the time of year that a chicken will often moult and take a rest, ready to start laying again in the spring.

[kirstie1978]

Ahh she was moulting heavily a few weeks ago but today I've noticed a fair few on the floor of the coop so that would make sense then. Thank you!! I can breathe now!! Funny how the silkie is broody and the other resting!!
Thanks

[Lindeggs]

Yes - so you have two chickens and no eggs!  How very frustrating for you!

[Casey76]

Well I have 19 pullets/hens of laying age and I haven't had a single egg for over 2 weeks.  It is incredibly frustrating, especially for those brids which are POL (i.e about 30 weeks).  I was hoping that at least some of them would start to lay this year!

[NormandyMary]

This weather is certainly confusing nature, just like its confusing me. Two weeks ago, we had our log burner on for a few days in a row. Now, Im wondering whether to get the electric fans out again. Its really hot, with darkish mornings and dark nights. Whatever is a chook to think?

[kirstie1978]

Fair point well presented!!! I have no scooby either.  The joys of good old England eh?!!