One of the best parts of keeping chickens is collecting fresh eggs each day. While hens naturally lay more at certain times of the year, there are a few simple things you can do to help keep your flock healthy and support good egg production.
Feed a Quality Layer Feed
A quality layer feed should be the foundation of your hens’ diet. It’s specially formulated to provide the protein, vitamins and minerals laying hens need to stay healthy and produce good-quality eggs.
Most backyard chickens enjoy the occasional treat or kitchen scraps, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Just remember these are exactly that, treats. They shouldn’t replace a balanced layer feed, as too many extras can mean your hens miss out on the nutrients they need.
Don’t Forget the Calcium
Every egg needs calcium to form a strong shell. If your hens don’t get enough, you may notice thinner or softer shells. Providing shell grit gives laying hens access to extra calcium whenever they need it, helping support strong, healthy eggshells.
Fresh Water Every Day
Fresh water is something that’s easy to overlook, but it’s one of the most important parts of keeping laying hens. Make sure drinkers are clean, topped up and easy for your flock to access every day.
Keep Nesting Boxes Clean
Hens are much happier laying in a clean, dry nesting box. Fresh nesting material also helps keep eggs cleaner and makes collecting them a little nicer for you too.
Give Them Room to Be Chickens
Happy hens are more likely to keep laying well. Plenty of space to scratch, forage and dust bathe, along with a consistent routine, can help reduce stress and support your flock’s overall wellbeing.
Remember That Laying Changes with the Seasons
It’s completely normal for hens to lay more eggs as the days become longer in spring and fewer eggs during winter. Age, breed, moulting and even changes around the coop can all affect how many eggs your hens produce, so don’t worry if production isn’t exactly the same all year round.
When Should You Be Concerned?
If your hens suddenly stop laying, it’s worth checking the basics first. Are they eating a balanced diet? Do they have access to calcium and fresh water? Have they recently moulted or experienced any changes in their environment? If something doesn’t seem right or your hens appear unwell, it’s always best to speak with your veterinarian.
Healthy Hens Lay Healthy Eggs
Supporting egg production doesn’t have to be complicated. A good layer feed, access to calcium, fresh water and a clean, comfortable coop will go a long way towards keeping your hens happy and laying well throughout the season.