Eggs Not In Nest

[darlenepotter]

We have four chickens and we're starting to find eggs in our yard on the grass broken and some are broken in the coop after they laid them up on the open loft. We actually found a broken egg in a nesting box. We're new to this chicken stuff

 

[sourland]

Any possibility that a crow or other predator is accessing the eggs?

 

[darlenepotter]

Any possibility that a crow or other predator is accessing the eggs?

I don't think so but I'll keep on the lookout. Thanks

 

[aart]

We actually found a broken egg in a nesting box.

How old are your birds(in weeks or months), and how long have they been laying?
Was the shell thin?
Was it mostly eaten or....?
What all and how exactly are you feeding?

Free range birds sometimes need to be 'trained'(or re-trained) to lay in the coop nests, especially new layers. Leaving them locked in the coop/run for a week or so can help 'home' them to lay in the coop nests. Fake eggs/golf balls in the nests can help 'show' them were to lay. They can be confined to coop and maybe run 24/7 for a few days to a week, provided you have adequate space and ventilation, or confine them at least until mid to late afternoon. You help them create a new habit and they will usually stick with it. ..at least for a good while, then repeat as necessary.


Oh, and..... Welcome to BYC! @darlenepotter
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