Eggs from free range birds versus ones kept in a run....

[cmom]

I really have seen no difference. The only time they slow up is when they molt. Also heat can affect them somewhat too.

 

[ruth]

There shouldn't really be a difference in egg production per say HOWEVER, there will be a big difference in taste. Eggs from truly free-ranging birds just taste better. The birds are getting bugs, grass, vegetation and insects they would not get while confined to a run which is quickly emptied of all of the above. My birds, too numerous to count, all free range all day and return to the coop at night or to lay their eggs during the day. I do occasionally find a hidden nest in the barn so I leave a few eggs each day and just gather them there. The birds don't seem wise to the fact that I'm onto them. Freeranging also keeps them healthier and fit - I've never had a disease or illness or cannibalism or prolapse in my flock.

The summer heat and molting have slowed egg production this summer plus any that stay in the coop tend to eat the eggs.