first eggs great except one hen

[henryetta]

i've gotton my first two beautiful eggs (two different hens) and then this eve just after i put in my girls into their run, a different one squated out in the open pen,and layed a soft shelled egg (i believe her first)which the others proceded to devower

I was so sad and ran fast to stop it, but now, what do you think is going to happen. They dont bother ones in their nesting box, but so far as i know they havent had a 'taste' yet either. I have read that this happens a lot with new layers, but i just feel so low tonight worring if this is going to cause them to always want to eat the eggs now.. Any encouraging info for me?

 

[Kim_NC]

We raise a lot of pullets. It seems like that happens with nearly every group - one or two lay a soft shell or shelless egg the first time. (Typical as their bodies adjust.) And yes, if it's outside, the others quickly eat it. But we've never had a problem with this developing into a habit of egg eating.

Make sure they have oyster shell so their shell quality improves. I also keep golf balls and plastic Easter eggs in the nests. This encourages them to lay in the boxes, and discourages them from pecking eggs as they're hard and there's no 'reward'.

Your gals will be fine. Congrats on your first eggs!

edited for typo

 

[henryetta]

aww, i cant thank you enough Kim... I know there's always 'things' that can happen still, but ya dont know how much i appreciat your quick reply. (i got up early this morn to check for an answer

) Im a worrysome person, so you have made my day. And thanks for my congrats on the eggs... It's amazing that even after having chickens for nearly 20 years in the country, that now just having these few here in the city, im such a spaz full of worrys. I think it's because i have just eight, and my skin kids are grown, that these little girls mean even that much more... Also that i raised these girls and now getting these beautiful eggs is such a difference..

 

[Kim_NC]

You're welcome. Can't wait to hear what colors your EEs lay.