[Hooee]

I have 2 cochins, one is 2yrs and never lays, she has in the past, but goes broody and becomes unhealthy, I'm sure she would lay if I put an egg or two in her nest box, But i'd rather she stayed tip top,Will It do her any harm not laying Also because Ninna doesent lay, her young friend Nora who is 6months only had her first egg and then stopped,again will this hurt her either now or in the long run?? They are just pets at home, they seem very happy and healthy , are they best left to nature ??   

[orchardlady]

Cochins are notorious for not laying well but as they are pets that's OK isn't it? A hen has a set amount of eggs in her just like a human. Once they are spent they are spent. Don't worry too much about intermittent laying especially at this time of year when the days are so short. They will lay when they are ready. If you have one that is often broody there are ways of stopping it. I've always found the cage method very effective, a bit harsh on the bird but not cruel.