Chickens squawk after laying an egg as a form of communication, signaling their satisfaction or alerting others to their activity in the coop.
If you’ve ever kept chickens, you’ve likely heard the loud squawking that follows egg-laying. This behavior, often called the “egg song,” is a fascinating part of chicken communication. While it might seem counterintuitive for chickens to announce their egg-laying to potential predators, there are several compelling reasons behind this noisy behavior.
The Science Behind the Egg Song
Chickens squawk after laying eggs due to a combination of instinctual behaviors and social communication. This behavior traces back to their wild ancestors, the red junglefowl of Southeast Asia. Researchers have identified three primary theories explaining this phenomenon:
1. Pride and Relief Theory
Many chicken keepers observe their hens appearing proud after laying. The loud squawking may signal accomplishment and relief from the physical strain of egg-laying. Hens often stand tall and puff their feathers while vocalizing, displaying classic signs of pride in many animal species.
2. Flock Reunification Theory
In wild settings, hens separate from the flock to lay eggs in private. The post-laying squawk helps them relocate their group. This explains why other chickens often respond to the egg song, creating a chorus of calls that helps the laying hen find her way back.
3. Predator Distraction Theory
Some experts believe hens squawk to draw predators away from the nest. By making noise while leaving the nesting area, they focus attention on themselves rather than their eggs. This aligns with how chickens protect themselves from predators in other situations.
Breed Differences in Egg Songs
Not all chickens sing equally after laying. Some breeds are notoriously vocal, while others remain quiet:
| Vocal Breeds | Quieter Breeds |
|---|---|
| Ameraucanas | Lavender Orpingtons |
| Australorps | Olive Eggers |
| Barred Rocks | Silkies |
Managing Noisy Layers
For urban chicken keepers concerned about neighbors, several strategies can help minimize noise:
- Choose quieter breeds when expanding your flock
- Provide multiple nesting boxes to reduce competition
- Use sound-dampening materials in the coop
- Establish a consistent feeding routine to distract hens post-laying
Interestingly, training chickens to respond to calls can sometimes help redirect their vocalizations.
Evolutionary Perspectives
The egg song likely developed through natural selection. According to a study published in Animal Behaviour, wild junglefowl hens that vocalized after laying had higher egg survival rates. This supports the predator distraction theory, as the noise would alert roosters to protect the area.
Rooster Responses
Observers note that roosters often respond to the egg song by:
- Becoming more vocal themselves
- Rushing to the hen’s location
- Performing mating displays
- Leading the hen back to the flock
When Squawking Indicates Problems
While post-laying squawks are normal, excessive vocalization might signal issues:
- Egg binding (a serious medical condition)
- Nest box competition
- Predator presence
- Stress from environmental factors
If you notice changes in your hens’ vocal patterns, check for other signs of distress. The Backyard Chickens community offers excellent resources for troubleshooting chicken behavior issues.
Cultural Significance
The chicken egg song has inspired various cultural references:
- Featured in children’s books about farm life
- Used as sound effects in cartoons and films
- Inspired folk songs and nursery rhymes
This widespread recognition speaks to how common and distinctive this behavior is across chicken-keeping cultures worldwide.
Practical Implications for Chicken Keepers
Understanding the egg song helps owners:
- Monitor laying patterns without visual confirmation
- Identify which hens are productive layers
- Recognize potential health issues
- Time egg collection for maximum freshness
For those interested in storing fresh eggs properly, recognizing the egg song helps you collect eggs at optimal times.