What the hell is this ???

Hi All,
When i checked my girls today i found the THING in the picture  in the nesting box could anyone please tell me what it is    there was something like this in the run a few weeks ago but they ate it before i could remove it any help or advice very much appreciated

I think it is a lash, usually they pass them when they are getting to the end of laying.  More information on another post HERE

Thank you for that info much appreciated  i have only had my hens since last oct think i was sold oaps  i think i will ask for my money back or younger ones what do you think  surely they should lay eggs a lot longer than 6 months???

Hi My daughter bought them for me last Oct from a farm where she and i now work so its a bit difficult without upsetting anyone The thing is me and my family have grown quite fond of our hens but i would have liked them to last a long time ie years not months i was told that Lohmanns (which mine are) are egg laying machines so only last around three or four years. I deally i would have wanted egg layers friendly hardy and long lasting what do you recommend as i may try introducing other hens incase the enevitable happens sooner than later  

Thanks again for the info i do like black rocks and tried to introduce one into the flock a couple of times but they kept attacking her I felt sorry for her as she only had one eye but was very friendly i may try to introduce several and watch the feathers fly 

Thanks again your a star 

a simple way to check if you have been sold old hens is to check their legs - are they slender of thick set? Generally they get thicker the older the bird 

Yeah i noticed that with my wife lol