Four Days Without Eggs!

[ChatKath47]

My chickens, a Leghorn and an Amerucana, are just over a year old, almost two years, but the Leghorn who has been really regular and dependable, lays by 10 a.m., has not laid in the last four days. I realize our heat of over 100+ makes ME tired and lethargic, but does that affect a chicken to the point of not laying? My two are my first adventure in chicken raising so I don't know - yet - what is "normal" and what isn't. She's healthy and active otherwise, but didn't know if chickens take a vacation or time off from laying. Can you help me with this?

 

[Cindy in PA]

If they are "almost 2" they may be molting. Good layers will molt 12-14= months after they start laying. Some lousy layers won't even lay for a year before molting. Many chickens do not look like they are molting so it's hard to tell.

 

[ChatKath47]

Thank you, Cindy, SO much for that information, I have been so worried this week. She's healthy and active otherwise, and I knew I'd get an egg a day at around 10 a.m. so when this stopped - now it's five days - I really got worried. I will attribute it to molt as I understand this is the time of year when it happens. Neither chicken have shed any feathers..so far...so will watch for that event. (Whew! I am relieved!) I am new to chicken raising - they are my "pets with benefits" and want to keep them as healthy as I can.