Blood on egg shells after laying

[jamielynn]

Is this common? It has happened a couple of times since winter started. It is not the same bird either. When I collect the eggs I notice some blood on the shell.
Thanks.

 

[Dar]

if they are fairly young birds new to laying then its normal.... my hens have been laying for 18 months and when we get a big one there will be a little blood on it... not to worry unless it is copious amounts

 

[jamielynn]

Thank you, that makes me feel better!

 

[mylilchix]

It's normal. I found an egg like that yesterday. It was my wheaten ameraucanas first egg. I have a few other who haven't been laying very long that will lay a bloody egg every once in a while.

Sonja

 

[PortageGirl]

Very common in young birds, occasional in older birds. Nothing to worry about unless becomes excessive but then what are you going to do? Tell them to stop laying eggs?

All I'd do is never hatch and raise chicks from a hen that had a consistent problem with this, because it's not a trait I'd want passed on.

 

[jamielynn]

Thanks everyone!

 

[LynneP]

I agree, and getting a little more fat in their diet at this time will help the egg chute to stay moist and accommodate the eggs. Wild bird suet is a good choice, or use fat from the kitchen (watch the salt) and mix in with seed or pellets.

 

[Taylor]

what causes blood on eggs are when they get too fat and they strain when they lay their eggs cauising blood on the egg shell