Yes, chickens can get upset when their eggs are taken, as they may feel stressed or anxious about losing their offspring and their nesting environment.
Many chicken owners wonder if their hens feel distressed when eggs are collected. The answer depends on whether your hen is broody or not. Most chickens don’t mind egg removal, but broody hens will protest loudly.
How Chickens React to Egg Collection
Normal laying hens typically show little reaction when you take their eggs. They’ve been bred for centuries to produce eggs frequently without strong maternal instincts. However, broody hens – those wanting to hatch eggs – will become very protective.
Non-Broody Hens
For regular layers:
- They often leave the nest immediately after laying
- Show no interest in eggs once laid
- May even peck at abandoned eggs
Broody Hens
Broody behavior includes:
- Clucking aggressively when approached
- Fluffing feathers to appear larger
- Pecking at hands reaching for eggs
- Refusing to leave the nest
Understanding Chicken Emotions
Chickens experience basic emotions but not complex human-like sadness. Their reactions are instinctual rather than emotional. Studies show chickens can:
| Emotion | Signs |
|---|---|
| Contentment | Soft clucking, dust bathing |
| Distress | Loud squawking, pacing |
| Fear | Freezing, fleeing |
When taking eggs from a broody hen, she shows distress – but this is about interrupted nesting behavior, not grief over lost offspring.
Best Practices for Egg Collection
For Regular Layers
Collect eggs 1-2 times daily. This:
- Prevents egg eating habits
- Keeps nests clean
- Reduces chance of broodiness
For Broody Hens
Options include:
- Break broodiness by removing her from nest
- Let her hatch eggs if you want chicks
- Use fake eggs to satisfy her instincts
Learn more about training chickens to use nesting boxes for easier collection.
Why Some Hens Become Broody
Broodiness depends on:
- Breed (some are more prone)
- Season (spring/summer)
- Age (older hens more likely)
- Nest environment
According to The Happy Chicken Coop, breeds like Silkies and Orpingtons are notoriously broody.
Minimizing Stress During Collection
Reduce disturbance by:
- Collecting at the same times daily
- Using a gentle approach
- Providing quality nesting boxes
- Avoiding sudden movements
For more on chicken behavior, see our guide on why chickens follow their owners.
Egg Production Facts
Modern hens lay far more eggs than their wild ancestors:
| Type | Eggs Per Year |
|---|---|
| Wild Junglefowl | 10-15 |
| Heritage Breeds | 150-200 |
| Production Hens | 250-300 |
As noted by PoultryDVM, this high production can lead to health issues if not managed properly.
When to Be Concerned
Watch for these signs of real distress:
- Prolonged loud vocalizations
- Aggression lasting hours after collection
- Refusal to eat or drink
- Repetitive pacing or feather plucking
These may indicate health issues or extreme stress requiring attention.
Creating a Happy Flock
For content chickens that don’t mind egg collection:
- Choose less broody breeds
- Provide enrichment activities
- Maintain consistent routines
- Ensure proper nutrition
Remember that occasional broodiness is natural chicken behavior. With proper management, egg collection can be stress-free for both you and your flock.