Egg laid with hole in it [pics]

[sumi]

Yes, I did, thank you for reminding me, Wyn! I've updated the article: https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/common-egg-quality-problems The hole-in-shell problem is #17

 

[KirkG]

Hi, I'm having the same issue. I currently have 3 Rhode island reds and one Wyondotte. The Reds arentlaying for some reason, melting is long past, but the Wyondotte is. However, for about 2 months now, every egg she lays has this same hole, but always on the top of the egg. I used to think it was because she was packing at it after laying it, but not I'm just flat out confused. Feeding 16% layer pellets. They're only 16 months old, and with it being July right now, I'm sure it's not because of too little amount of sun (as far as the Reds go).

 

[GC-Raptor]

However, for about 2 months now, every egg she lays has this same hole, but always on the top of the egg.

A hen stands as the egg is coming out. Make sure there is enough nest material so egg doesn't drop on the floor of nest.

The Reds aren't laying for some reason, melting is long past, but the Wyondotte is.

Is it hot weather at your location? Did they recently stop laying? Do you give treats?
If yes to all questions. Stop giving treats. The RIR need a lot of nutritious feed to lay.
Make sure the feeder is clean and feed is fresh and not stinky or moldy.
Try giving them a wet mash made with the layer feed instead of treats. A half cup of dry feed for 4 chickens.
Add enough cold water to cover feed about a 1/4 to 1/2 inch and serve immediately. Offer twice daily. . GC

 

[MoBirdie]

I just read that the hole occurs after the egg has been laid, while the shell has not hardened yet. It said it is often caused by a toenail puncturing the soft shell.

 

[aart]

I just read that the hole occurs after the egg has been laid, while the shell has not hardened yet.

The shell is already hard when it's laid.
If you read thru this whole thread @MoBirdie you will see that hole was a one time glitch.

 

[Lothloria]

I have the same problem with a one year and a half old hen. Only it's all the time now and sometimes she lays the egg on the ground outside the coop as if she didn't feel it coming.

I know it's not done by her toes because the rare times when it's not broken, it's got light areas instead of a hole.

This hen lays bigger eggs than my other hens. She did perhaps lack oyster shells but I ve been given her a lot for the last month. Occasionally she will lay an almost normal egg it's annoying because it's my favourite. She's very gentle and friendly, and I don't want to have to eat her. Unfortunately yesterday I found she or the other hen had eaten the inside of an egg she had laid outside.