10 Reasons Why Your Chickens Aren’t Laying More Eggs and What You Can Do About It

As a chicken owner, it can be frustrating when your chickens aren't laying enough eggs. There are several reasons why your chickens' egg laying output may not meet your expectations. We've put together the top ten reasons why chickens may not be laying as many eggs as you'd want them to. 

1) Age. Age is one of the biggest factors that affects a chicken's egg laying capability. Typically, hens start laying eggs between the ages of 4-6 months, and they continue to lay eggs until they are 2-3 years old. After that, their egg production will start to decline. If your chickens are older, it's possible that their egg production has slowed down.

2) Stress. Stress is another factor that can impact a chicken's egg laying capability. Chickens that are stressed may not lay eggs or may stop laying eggs altogether. Some common causes of stress in chickens include overcrowding, loud noises, predators, and changes in their environment.

3) Lighting. Lighting is another factor that can impact a chicken's egg laying capability. Chickens require a certain amount of light to lay eggs. If they don't get enough light, they may stop laying eggs. Generally, chickens need about 14-16 hours of light per day to lay eggs consistently.

4) Nutrition. Nutrition is critical for a chicken's egg laying capability. Chickens require a balanced diet that is high in protein and calcium to lay eggs. If your chickens are not getting enough of these nutrients, their egg production may suffer.

5) Illness. Illness can also affect a chicken's egg laying capability. Chickens that are sick may not lay eggs or may stop laying eggs altogether. Some common illnesses that can affect egg production include respiratory infections, parasites, and egg-laying problems.

6) Molting. Molting is a natural process where chickens shed their old feathers and grow new ones. During this time, their egg production will slow down or stop altogether. This process usually occurs in the fall and can last for several weeks.

7) Breed. Different breeds of chickens have different egg-laying capabilities. Some breeds, such as Leghorns and Rhode Island Reds, are known for their high egg production, while others, such as Silkies and Polish chickens, lay fewer eggs.

8) Temperature. Temperature can also impact a chicken's egg laying capability. Chickens prefer temperatures between 50-80 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature is too hot or too cold, their egg production may suffer.

9) Daylight. hours Daylight hours can also affect a chicken's egg laying capability. Chickens are sensitive to changes in daylight hours, and their egg production may slow down or stop altogether during the winter months when there are fewer daylight hours.

10) Genetics. Finally, genetics can play a role in a chicken's egg laying capability. Some chickens are simply not genetically predisposed to lay a lot of eggs, while others are bred specifically for their egg-laying abilities.

So now you ask, ok, I understand the reasons why the chicken's aren't laying as many eggs, but what can I do to help them? 

While we'll list the most important things to be done, there are some natural limitations such as chicken breed, age and genetics which even with the most optimal conditions will still be the limiting factor. Nevertheless, the jobs-to-be-done will all ensure chicken's wellbeing and help you and your flock get closer to the natural maximum output of eggs.

1) Provide a balanced diet. Chickens require a balanced diet that is high in protein and calcium to lay eggs. Make sure that you are providing your chickens with a good quality feed that contains the necessary nutrients. You can also supplement their diet with treats such as fruits, vegetables, and mealworms, but be sure to do so in moderation.

2) Ensure proper lighting. Lighting is important for a chicken's egg production. Chickens need about 14-16 hours of light per day to lay eggs consistently. Make sure that your chickens have access to natural light or artificial light if necessary. You can use a timer to ensure that they get the required amount of light.

3) Provide a clean and comfortable environment. Stress can have a negative impact on a chicken's egg production. Make sure that your chickens have a clean and comfortable environment to live in. Keep their coop clean and dry, and provide them with enough space to move around. You can also provide them with perches, nesting boxes, and dust baths to keep them comfortable.

4) Monitor their health. Illness can also affect a chicken's egg production. Regularly monitor your chickens' health and watch out for signs of illness such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or abnormal behavior. If you notice any signs of illness, consult with a veterinarian as soon as possible.

5) Use supplements. There are several supplements that you can use to help boost your chickens' egg production. One common supplement is oyster shell, which is high in calcium and can help improve the quality of the eggshells. You can also use probiotics to help improve their gut health and digestion.

6) Keep them hydrated. Make sure that your chickens have access to clean and fresh water at all times. Dehydration can have a negative impact on their egg production, so it's important to make sure that they are always hydrated.

7) Avoid overcrowding. Overcrowding can cause stress and reduce a chicken's egg production. Make sure that your chickens have enough space to move around and that they are not overcrowded in their coop.

8) Provide nesting boxes. Chickens need a comfortable and secure place to lay their eggs. Provide them with nesting boxes that are filled with clean and soft bedding. This will encourage them to lay their eggs in the boxes rather than on the ground.

9) Don't disturb them while they are laying. Chickens prefer to lay their eggs in peace and quiet. Avoid disturbing them while they are laying by keeping noise levels down and avoiding unnecessary disruptions.

10) Keep them active. Chickens are naturally active creatures, and keeping them active can help improve their egg production. Provide them with toys and objects to play with, and allow them to free-range if possible. This will help keep them stimulated and active, which can lead to increased egg production.

In conclusion, there are several things that you can do to get your chickens to lay more eggs. By providing them with a balanced diet, proper lighting, a clean and comfortable environment, and supplements, you can help improve their egg production. Make sure to monitor their health, keep them hydrated, avoid overcrowding, provide nesting boxes, and keep them active to ensure that they are healthy and happy. With these tips, you can have a happy and productive flock of chickens that'll lay plenty of eggs.