Chickens Stopped Laying, Cause?

[CluckinUP]

First, my apologies if this question has been answered previously. Early in May, we finished building a new coop and enlarging the run. At that time, the two new ladies moved in with our existing gang of two. I must mention that prior to the move, the two latest hens were situated next to the existing run, so they've had time to see and talk to each other. We got the pecking order established, hens were laying eggs, but they've slowed down. They have access to oyster shells, do not free-range but I do give them weeds. One is in retirement, one is 5 years old (she layed an egg on Saturday after much fuss). The new ladies are both about 2 years, one is very consistent, the other a legbar/orphington mix hasn't layed in about two weeks? What can cause them to slow down? Is there something I should look for? All are eating and drinking. I do add ACV to their water once a week. Any ideas?

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Warmer temperatures will slow or stop production. In warmer weather adding vinegar to you water can inhibit a hens ability to absorb calcium. You should provide clean fresh water daily, eggs are mostly water.

In warmer weather hens will eat less which can cause a slowing of production. Feeding a higher protein ration and limiting extras will help to optimize production. Always have a separate bowl of oyster shells available for the calcium needs.

Most hens will pick up production again when weather start to cool off.

Of course I'm only assuming it's warm where you are, as you haven't shared your location.

 

[cholland]

Chickens can get stressed and slow or stop laying for any number of reasons. New flock members, change feed, predators prowling around the coop at night, parasites, etc.

I am also trying to figure out why mine slowed down. Went from 8-9 eggs a day from 10 hens to only 2-3 the last few days. Nothing has really changed so I'm going to check for mites/lice tomorrow.
In terms of hot weather I've found, with my birds, they do pretty well until it gets over 105 for a few days. That will slow them down