[andy and deb]

one of our girls Martha is very quiet today , she seems to be holding her tail down , she hasn't laid yet and we were wondering as the other three have been laying for about a week or two ..whether she is holding an egg in or whether its some other problem..thanks
 Andy

[bantam novice]

She could be trying to lay a softie (soft shelled egg).  This makes hens feel under the weather.  It can happen at the start of a laying cycle.  You could try giving her a warm bath.  This can help hens relax and expell what is blocking them.  Good luck and keep us posted.

[andy and deb]

ok thanks I,ll try that and let you know how she reacts..