7 Reasons Why Chickens Stop Laying Eggs

Have you ever visited the chicken coop only to find out there are no eggs? Disappointing, I say. It even makes you anxious and worried. However, is it really something you should focus your attention to? If so, is there anything you can do about it?

Honestly, the answer to the question differs. But basically, these are more like minor issues that can be easily fixed. So breathe in and breathe out. In no time, you can get your precious hens laying those fresh and organic eggs again!

1. Age

Naturally, hens begin laying eggs at 6 months. Still, this may vary depending on the breed. The heavier breeds may start to lay eggs later than 6 months while others may start laying eggs a bit earlier.

However, there are times when it is really hard to track which hen laid the egg, especially if you have a big flock. If that is the case, keep an eye over one hen for a week. And if she is not showing any signs that there is something wrong, then you can check others instead.

2. Breed

Well, this one may seem a bit obvious. While some chickens are great layers, others are excellent meat providers. So depending on your hen’s breed, this could probably be the reason you are not harvesting not much number of eggs.

Here’s a helpful advice. White Leghorns and Rhode Island Reds are just among those breeds that are said to be great layers. Hence, if you are raising hens for the purpose of selling eggs, these chicken breeds would make a great choice.

3. Environment

Sometimes, if there are new birds in the flock, the more seasoned egg-laying hens will eventually stop laying. It just makes them somewhat surprised adding new members to their family. It’s basically like having a blended family. It would be very difficult to begin with and find a perfect rhythm or balance in the household.

If you think this is the problem, all you can do is to extend your patience. In a matter of days, your chickens may have already adjusted and lay eggs the way they used to.

4. Winter Is Coming!

Hens love to see the light of the day, but what’s funny is that they aren’t really early risers. And in order to lay eggs, they have to be exposed to at least 16 hours of daylight. That said; don’t be alarmed if they don’t lay as many eggs during winter.

Okay, there is still something you can do this to have those faithful birds laying eggs. You can install accessories in the chicken coop, such as lamps, so that you can create an illusion that the sun is still up and that they can still lay eggs for your family.

5. Lack of Nutrients

Chickens are similar to humans in some ways. In order for their bodies to properly function, they need to intake the right nutrients. Of course, that does not mean you should start giving protein shakes to your birds. The best option you have is to offer them a dose of protein they need through layer pellets.

But if you think you did not fail to give them layer pellets and they are still unproductive, maybe you can try offering treats like meal worms and pumpkin seeds.

6. Empty Feeders

Even when they are not hungry, chickens love to see a feeder filled with treats. That sight somehow brings peace to their stomachs, making them feel full. So when they see otherwise, they will assume that they might starve. And when starvation happens, they will redirect all the nutrients in the body, preventing them from laying eggs. Pretty neat, huh?

The only solution for them not to think about starvation is to leave a decent amount of food in their coop. Even if they don’t want to eat, it will remind them that they won’t starve and that life is good. And then, they continue laying eggs.

7. Dirty Coops

If your hens are not laying, check the nesting box. There might be problems with it. If the nesting material is not clean, they don’t want to lay in it.

Therefore, the best thing you can do is to clean the nesting box’s material once or twice a week. It has to be changed with something fresh and comfortable. Wood shavings, straw, or shredded paper would suffice. These materials would keep the nests smelling clean.

As a responsible owner, I believe you already know about all these things. My only advice is not to take these tips for granted. While they may all look simple and easy-to-do, there are many poultry farmers out there who do not mind these aspects. At the end of the day, they end up asking, ‘Why did my hens stop laying eggs?’

Bonus. To help your chickens lay good-quality eggs all-year round, grab a copy of the eBook below. I’ve outlined several tips there, which you can definitely help boost the productivity of your girls.

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