What happens to hens after they die?

After a hen dies, its body undergoes various changes as part of the natural decomposition process. Here's what typically happens:

> Rigor Mortis: Shortly after death, the muscles in the hen's body stiffen due to a biochemical change called rigor mortis. This stiffness usually sets in within a few hours and can last for up to 24 hours.

> Algor Mortis: As the body loses heat, it begins to cool down, a process called algor mortis. The rate of cooling depends factors like the environment temperature and the hen's size.

> Dehydration & Autolysis: Over time, the body loses moisture through evaporation, causing the skin and tissues to dry out. Simultaneously, the cells within the body begin to break down a process known as autolysis. Enzymes within the cells start digesting the tissues, leading to the gradual decomposition of the body.

> Bacterial Action: As decomposition continues, bacteria from the environment and the hen's gut start to colonize the body and multiply rapidly. These bacteria accelerate the breakdown of tissues, producing gases and unpleasant odors.

> Decomposition Stages: The decomposition process can be divided into several stages:

a. Fresh: The body is intact, with minimal signs of decomposition

b. Bloated: Gases produced by bacterial action cause the body to swell, often accompanied by a greenish discoloration.

c. Active Decay: The body undergoes rapid decomposition, with significant tissue breakdown and a strong odor.

d. Advanced Decay: Most of the soft tissue has decomposed, leaving behind bones, feathers, and fur

> Skeletonization: Eventually, all the soft tissue decomposes, leaving only the skeleton. The rate at which decomposition occurs can vary based on factors such as temperature, humidity, and the presence of scavengers. In natural environments, the bones may remain exposed and gradually weathered over time. Alternatively, they might be buried, preserved in soil, or carried away by scavengers.