[Maccbean]

Hi

I have gone from 5 hens to 2 in 6 months, since my top hen was put down two weeks ago.  Since then,  Suzy has been left with her nemesis, Rita who used to bully her when they were 5, but now there are 2 she doesn't.  She's behaving very depressed and spending hours inside the coop on her own .  She's still laying and looks well otherwise, but would I be wrong in thinking she is missing Erica who really was the top hen but without bullying and so full of character?  She's eating but won't eat the corn that I throw down as a treat even though she used to love it.  Any help would be appreciated.

Debbie

[bantam novice]

Hello there, Debbie,
I'm sorry to hear about Rita  .  I am not that experienced but my instinct would be that hens can miss flock-mates.   
If it were redmite I don't think she would be spending so much time in the coop.
When did you last worm her and what did you use?
I'm sure that someone more experienced will be along with advice.  In the meantime good luck and keep us posted.

[Maccbean]

I do worm them regularly and in fact wormed them last week.  It's Suzy that's depressed.  I hate to see her so miserable.

[bantam novice]

Sorry I got the wrong hen 

As I said, my instinct is that hens can miss their flock mates.  I am not a hen psychiatrist; however I think it may be a matter of time.  I hope she perks up.