How do you tell if a hen is laying or not?

Online Answer
To tell if the hen is laying eggs, feel gently around the vent, as Mike explains. The area will feel inflated when the hen is in lay. If the area feels taut or the bird looks unwell, she may not be laying and may have an illness such as egg peritonitis.
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I'm often asked if a rooster is required in the coop for hens to lay eggs. The answer is no. Hens will lay eggs without a rooster around to do what roosters do, but don't expect baby chicks..
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Signs a Chicken Is Going to Lay an Egg
  • Squatting, especially when you approach.
  • Standing still and opening their wings when you're near.
  • Their wattle and comb is redder.
  • They are clucking and chatting more than usual.
  • They are searching for and building nesting areas.
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