Discovering that chickens are breaking and eating their own eggs is a common but frustrating problem that can affect the productivity and health of the flock. Understanding the causes and implementing effective strategies can help to put an end to this.
Egg eating in chickens can be a challenging issue for backyard poultry owners to face. It’s crucial to address this behavior quickly to prevent it from spreading through the flock and being an everyday issue.
Egg eating occurs when chickens break and consume their own eggs. This behavior can start for several reasons, including:
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients can lead chickens to seek them in eggs and shells.
- Environmental Stress: Overcrowding or inadequate nesting boxes can contribute.
- Learned Behavior: Chickens can learn egg eating from observing others or accidentally breaking shells.
- Boredom: Lack of stimulation can lead to destructive behaviors.
Look for broken eggshells in the nesting boxes, yolk or egg residue on the chickens’ beaks, feathers, nesting boxes, and a drop in egg numbers. These are clear indicators that egg eating is occurring.
Chickens that are egg eaters often show increased interest in the nesting boxes, stalking them and spending more time than typical inside. Look for these behaviors in your flock to catch the culprits.
Young hens just starting to lay often have weak shells. If an egg accidentally breaks, this will often start a habit of hens intentionally breaking and eating eggs. When your first pullet lays an egg, promptly switch them to laying feed and offer free choice-oyster shell to boost shell strength in the flock.
Regular egg collecting is essential to reduce the chances of eggs being broken and eaten. Aim to collect eggs at least twice a day, especially in the morning and afternoon. If the eggs sit in the nest boxes that rises the chances of them being eaten.
Placing fake or ceramic eggs in the nesting boxes can deter egg eating. Chickens peck at these without reward, which can discourage the behavior all together.
If chickens are egg eating assess their diet. A complete feed with adequate calcium is crucial. Supplement your chickens’ diet with oyster shells or other calcium sources to strengthen their eggshells and reduce the temptation to eat eggs.
Increasing the protein in your chickens’ diet can also help. Protein-rich treats like mealworms can satisfy their nutritional needs and reduce the issue of them looking for their nutrients from their own eggs.
Ensure you have enough nesting boxes for your hens. The recommended ratio is one nesting box for every 4-5 hens. Make the boxes attractive by keeping them clean and adding fresh bedding regularly.
A stimulating environment will help to prevent boredom-related egg eating. Provide toys, perches, and opportunities for foraging. Hanging vegetables, a treat holder and dust bath areas are great coop additions.
If the issue persists extreme measures may be needed. Roll-away nesting boxes may be the key for an egg eating flock. These are designed to collect eggs immediately after they are laid, preventing hens from accessing them. These boxes can be a great solution if egg eating persists despite other interventions.
If you can identify the egg eater, consider temporarily isolating her. This can help break the habit and prevent other hens from seeing and learning the behavior.
If the behavior continues despite your best efforts, it might be time to consult a veterinarian or poultry expert. Persistent egg eating can be a sign of underlying health issues that need professional attention and nutrition advice.
Egg eating in chickens is a behavior that can be managed and prevented with the right strategies. By addressing nutritional deficiencies, improving the coop environment, and implementing behavioral interventions, you can protect your eggs and maintain a healthy flock.
