first rotten eggs now nothing

[Zwillingsmama]

I have a 2 year old EE, she was laying fine until about a months ago. She then had a normal egg, a small egg and a fairy egg within 2 days, than 3 days later another normal looking egg. The small egg and the last egg where both rotten. After that no egg. She looks and acts happy, visits the nest box but no egg. She is not egg bound. I have another hen, same age which hasn't layed an egg for 5/6 weeks. Again looks and acts happy, just no eggs. My other 3 hens are laying what you would expect from 2 year old chicken. Any idea what could be the problem?

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

They could be taking a break because of the heat, or taking a break because of the time of year. We are quickly approaching the start of the fall molt. I've seen some start as early as late July.

Those that are getting close to a molt will probably not start back up for a few months. Those that are taking a break may resume for a few weeks when it cools a bit.

Feeding a slightly higher protein ration can sometimes help hens optimize production. I personally like an 18% ration for everyone.

 

[aart]

The small egg and the last egg where both rotten.

What do you mean by "rotten"....fresh egg but all black and stinky inside?
Didn't happen to take any pics did you?

 

[Zwillingsmama]

What do you mean by "rotten"....fresh egg but all black and stinky inside?
Didn't happen to take any pics did you?

I didn't take any pictures, but the eggs smelled awful and the yolk was greyish.