free ranging and better production.

[Miriahb]

I have noticed something and want to compare notes to see if it's common. I started out free ranging my small flock until a neighborhood dog began going after my chickens. While my hens were free to wander, I was getting 7-8 eggs a day. When I had to restrict them to their run, the amounts dropped dramatically to just 3 or four eggs per day. Now that said dog is no longer an issue, I've started letting them out again and the eggs have increased back to normal. Even my Fayoumis are laying regularly. Has this happened to anyone else? Maybe my chickens are just happier and more productive when they're able to eat all the bugs.

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

I have noticed something and want to compare notes to see if it's common. I started out free ranging my small flock until a neighborhood dog began going after my chickens. While my hens were free to wander, I was getting 7-8 eggs a day. When I had to restrict them to their run, the amounts dropped dramatically to just 3 or four eggs per day. Now that said dog is no longer an issue, I've started letting them out again and the eggs have increased back to normal. Even my Fayoumis are laying regularly. Has this happened to anyone else? Maybe my chickens are just happier and more productive when they're able to eat all the bugs.

How much space is available and to how many birds total when they are kept confined?

 

[Miriahb]

There are 1 giant roo, one Phoenix roo, one Sumatran bantam, one Phoenix hen, four leghorn hens, five cinnamon queens, and two Fayoumis hens. Their run is 30x50 feet.

 

[City farm]

It was probably the stress from the dog.. They get stressed when it's hot, new egg layer ect... Chickens don't like change.. Especially a new chicken coming into their territory..
Our get a long run and some free time out in the front yard with the duck's.. We have had a flock of wing tailed doves with a nest above the duck area.. So more poo.. More disease .. So they have not been let out for about 1 month.. Soon though but not untill that baby in the nest is gone.. Also I am out there with them for that reason.. Even though they are in a gate in the frontyard with the duck's.. I have to keep my eye on them, they will eat all my garden goodies..

Also, enjoy this video..
https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/...-byc-getting-his-groove-on-in-a-wedding-dance