Calcium deposits on egg -- thin, fragile shell

[Jenngarman]

Hello, all -- I am unsure I am writing at the correct spot...I do love this forum for advice!

I have a Partridge Cochin who continually lays fragile eggs with large calcium deposits on the tops. She is one of 15 (no others have issues) and is not picked on. Her eggs are fine to use for personal use, but I wouldn't want to sell them. Sometimes, they get stepped on and shatter in the eggbox...they are that fragile. I have posted a picture of the last two (pretty much one a day, sometimes every other) -- you can see the break in today's. I do not think it is a calcium thing, because wouldn't the rest of the flock also have the same outcome? This has been at least a year -- in all other aspects, she is a healthy hen! Thank anyone for any insight!

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

What are you feeding? Calcium deposits can be from too much calcium, which can happen when they are fed a layer.

 

[Jenngarman]

Standard layer pellets...Layena is usual...but again, only 1 in 15 is having this issue. I have raised all from day-olds on the same diet. Curious.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Not all hens need the same amount of daily calcium. A layer ration provides a certain amount to all hens whether they lay daily, or every 3 days. A less productive breed like a Cochin requires less calcium than a leghorn. A layer ration is a one size fits all ration. It can work well if you keep higher production birds only.

I personally prefer to feed a non medicated starter grower or an All Flock ration with a separate bowl of oyster shells for the calcium needs. Hens will consume them as necessary. I no longer see calcium deposits.

 

[Jenngarman]

Excellent advice -- I will try -- thank you!

 

[Judiv]

I have a very similar issue - my 9 month old Ameraucana laid nice blue eggs for a couple months then the shells started getting thinner and thinner. Usually had some calcium deposits, but has laid 3 softies and almost all of her eggs are crushed or split open in the nest box. Feeding layer feed and OS separately, but she shows very little interest in the OS or ES when occasionally offered. She also seems underweight compared to my other Ameraucana.
Tried every thing I can think of and has been suggested. Layer feed only; add extra calcium (yogurt); calcium/D3/phos added in their water. No difference. Sad to lose such pretty eggs.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Tried every thing I can think of and has been suggested. Layer feed only; add extra calcium (yogurt); calcium/D3/phos added in their water. No difference. Sad to lose such pretty eggs.View attachment 2105569

Possibly a glitch in her reproductive system, in which case supplementing won't help as she's not able to form egg shells properly.

 

[Judiv]

Possibly a glitch in her reproductive system, in which case supplementing won't help as she's not able to form egg shells properly.

Thank you. That's what I'm afraid is the case. Now to keep hubby from getting rid of her... She's still a sweet chicken and fond of her 3 sisters.