If you're a chicken owner and your hens have stopped laying eggs, you may be wondering what's going on?

There are several reasons why hens may stop laying, including age, nutrition, weather, stress, and health issues. In this guide, we'll explore these reasons and provide solutions to help get your hens laying again.

Age of the Hens-How Long do Chickens Live?

One of the most common reasons why hens stop laying eggs is simply because of their age. As hens get older, their egg production naturally decreases. Most hens will lay consistently for the first two to three years of their life, but after that, their egg production will start to decline.

The average lifespan of a chicken is 5-8 years. If your hens are over three years old and have stopped laying, it may be time to consider retiring  them and add some younger birds to your backyard flock.

Lack of Proper Nutrition.

Another common reason why hens may stop laying eggs is due to a lack of proper nutrition. Hens require a balanced diet that includes protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients to produce eggs. If their diet is lacking in any of these nutrients, it can impact their egg production.

Make sure your hens have access to a high-quality feed that is specifically formulated for laying hens. You can also supplement their diet with treats like mealworms, fruits, and vegetables to provide additional nutrients.

Ensure that your hens have adequate supply of water at all times. If your hens are without water for even a short period, their egg production will fall.

Will free ranging my hens decrease their egg production?

Yes, it's possible that free-ranging hens could decrease their egg production. Free-ranging hens have more opportunities for exercise, foraging, and social interaction, which can improve their overall health and well-being. However, if the hens are not getting enough of the necessary nutrients or if they are spending too much energy on activities such as foraging or exploring, their egg production could be affected.

In general, free-ranging hens may lay slightly fewer eggs than hens kept in a controlled environment, such as a coop or run. This is because free-ranging hens are more likely to expend energy on activities other than egg-laying, such as foraging, exploring, or socialising. However, the decrease in egg production is typically not significant and can be offset by other benefits of free-ranging, such as better health and well-being.

To avoid this problem, try keeping your hens in their enclosure for a period of time before free ranging them, such as several hours in the morning. This will ensure that they have had plenty of time to fill up on their high protein  chook food before enjoying free time scratching about in the garden. 

Inadequate Lighting.

Lighting is another important factor that can impact egg production in hens. Hens require a certain amount of light each day to stimulate their reproductive system and encourage egg laying.

If they are not getting enough light, they may stop laying eggs or reduce their egg production.

Winter months see shorter daylight hours, make sure your coop has adequate lighting, either natural or artificial, and that it is on for at least 14 hours per day. You can also use a timer to ensure consistent lighting each day.

Stressful Environment.

Just like humans, hens can experience stress, and it can impact their egg production. Stressful environments can include overcrowding, loud noises, and aggressive behaviour from other birds. Make sure your coop is spacious enough for your hens and that they have enough room to move around comfortably. Also, try to keep the noise level down and monitor the behavior of your birds to prevent any aggressive behaviour.

Providing your hens with a calm and comfortable environment can help reduce stress and encourage egg laying. 

Common Health Issues of Hens.

Health issues can also impact a hen's ability to lay eggs. Common health issues that can affect egg production include parasites, infections, and nutritional deficiencies. Here are a few common ones:

1. Infectious bronchitis: Infectious bronchitis is a viral respiratory disease that can cause a drop in egg production or even a complete stop in egg-laying. Hens may also exhibit other symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, and nasal discharge.

2. Egg Drop Syndrome (EDS): EDS is a viral disease that can cause a significant decrease in egg production and quality. Hens may also lay abnormal eggs with thin shells, misshapen shells, or no shells at all.

   

3. Fowl Pox: Fowl pox is a viral disease that can cause a reduction in egg production or stoppage altogether. Hens may also develop scabby lesions on their combs, wattles, and skin. All our day old chicks and hens are vaccinated for Fowl Pox. 

4. Molt:  Molting is a natural process where chickens shed their old feathers and grow new ones. During this time, their energy is redirected towards feather growth rather than egg production.
   

5. Marek's Disease: Marek's Disease is a viral disease that affects the nervous system of chickens. Hens may stop laying eggs as a result of the disease, and may also exhibit other symptoms such as paralysis, weight loss, and depression. All our day old chicks and hens are vaccinated for Mareks Disease.

6. Avian Influenza: Avian influenza is a highly contagious viral disease that can cause a drop in egg production or complete stoppage of egg-laying. Hens may also exhibit other symptoms such as respiratory distress, diarrhea, and lethargy.

Regularly check your hens for signs of illness, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or abnormal droppings. Make sure that you treat your flock for worms on a regular basis.

Provide your hens with a balanced diet that includes enough protein and calcium to support egg production. If you suspect a health issue, consult with a veterinarian who specialises in poultry to determine the best course of treatment.

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