To encourage your
chickens to lay more eggs, you need to optimize several key factors that affect
their health, comfort, and productivity. Here’s a practical guide:
1. Nutrition
· High-quality layer feed: Use a balanced feed with ~16-18% protein and essential
nutrients like calcium and vitamin D.
· Calcium supplement: Provide crushed oyster shells or limestone grit separately to
support strong eggshells.
· Fresh water: Always ensure clean, fresh water is available. Even short
dehydration can stop egg production.
2. Lighting
· Chickens need 14–16 hours of light per
day to lay optimally.
· In winter, use a timer to add supplemental warm
white light in the morning (not at night) to avoid stress.
· Avoid harsh or sudden light changes.
3. Comfortable Coop Conditions
· Clean and dry environment: Prevent stress and disease.
· Ventilation: Good airflow without drafts.
· Nest boxes: Provide at least 1 nest box for every 3–4 hens. Keep them
dark, quiet, and lined with soft bedding.
4. Minimize Stress
· Avoid sudden changes in feed, coop, or routine.
· Keep predators and loud noises away.
· Don’t overcrowd: Allow 4–5 square feet per bird inside
the coop and more in the run.
5. Health Checkups
· Regularly check for parasites (mites, lice, worms).
· Vaccinate if needed and isolate sick birds.
· Molting and illness can stop laying temporarily—ensure
they’re healthy and recovering.
6. Genetics & Age
· Some breeds are more prolific layers (e.g., Leghorns, Rhode
Island Reds, Golden Comets).
· Peak production is between 6 months and 2 years of
age.
· Older hens naturally slow down over time.
Extra Tips
· Offer occasional treats like mealworms or garden
greens—but not too much (max 10% of their diet).
· Avoid too much corn—it’s energy-dense but lacks protein.
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