Getting fewer eggs

[pintail_drake2004]

Hey folks,

My wife and I just came back from our Europe trip, and our hens are laying about 1/2 of what they were when we left. We were getting 16-18 eggs/day before May 11. Now we are getting about 6-9. I do have several hens trying to nest in the same box (like 4-5 at a time), so I'm counting the broken eggs I've seen them kick out of the nest box. but I think I should be getting more than that. The temp has risen to about 95*, I don't know if that would have anything to do with it. What gives?

 

[SueT]

Maybe they are upset that you were gone ....a change in caretaker and routines?

 

[pintail_drake2004]

Yep, my parents who are on the farm regularly, routinely provide the chickens with treats (strawberry tops, greens, old bread heels, etc). on their frequent visits. so the chickens know them.

 

[Amelia ducks]

my ducks stop laying when it gets really cold

 

[chickens really]

Heat can stop production in Hens too. Anything that stresses them..

 

[chickens really]

Also Ducks lay and then take breaks..

 

[danceswithronin]

Do they have enough water and is it staying cool enough? I know extreme heat (95+) can affect egg production, anything over 90F, especially if they aren't drinking enough. If the water is getting too warm in the run the chickens will drink less of it too. I'd maybe try throwing a few ice cubes in their water to cool them down.

 

[chickens really]

I'm not sure if it's Ducks or Chickens?..They all need fresh cool water..

 

[pintail_drake2004]

I have chickens in this coop. Its a 5gal waterer I refresh regularly.

 

[alexa009]

If the temp is rising where you live that is probably what's causing it. Its already in the 90's where I live and I am getting only half as many eggs as I used to.