egg laying diet

[chick momma10]

I have about 50 chickens and I would like to know what is the best diet for the most egg laying and how hot can a chicken get and does the heat effect the egg laying of the hen.

 

[D'Angelo N Va.]

how old are the chickens first of all. I have not noticed a decrease in egg laying because of the heat..and I live in Va. which is very HOTT & HUMID.

 

[D'Angelo N Va.]

Quote:
just make sure they have plenty of water to drink at all times or you will definitely see a drop in egg production.

 

[chick momma10]

my chicks are about 4 months old thanks so much

 

[bturbo87]

heat is definitely affecting us our heat index is hitting up near 120 every day, and even with a fan and frozen 2 liter bottles were down to two maybe three eggs a day compared to the 4-6 we were getting a week and a half ago. as for diet, the highest protein you can find, with some yogurt for a boost, if you notice youve got some that are serious about popping out eggs, you will want to supplement with oyster shell to keep their calcium up. also the more greens(free range/grass clippings and fresh vegetable leftovers) and bugs they get, the deep yellow to orange color youll get in your yolks.

 

[digitS']

Doesn't it seem odd that a tropical bird, the chicken, should have serious problems with heat?

Here is a chart from the University of Iowa showing when you should start paying attention to keeping them safe: Temperature and Humidity Stress. Really, it is whenever the thermometer goes above about 85°.

This University of Minnesota Extension Service information gives you some idea of how to deal with Heat Stress. Obviously, shade and ventilation are important. Electrolytes and vitamins are also suggested.

As the heat goes up, the food consumption goes down. As was said, feeding a high percentage protein ration is important since most of the protein in the diet is used for egg production. If the hen cuts down too much on her food, she may very well be taking in too little protein to produce eggs.

Hot days are not the time to allow them to load up on high-calorie, low-protein treats.

Steve