Good morning,

[Randol]

New here, my name is Randol.
I have a question about my chickens.
My chickens are about 2 years old now and I've had no problems until now. I have placed a fence around my yard and now my chickens free-range. Out of 7 hens, only 3 are laying, this is been for 3 weeks now. Can anyone help me with this?

 

[N F C]

Hi Random, since your flock is now free ranging, it's possible they have hidden a nest.

 

[sourland]

Hello, Randol, and welcome to BYC. At 2 years of age they may be taking a normal break in their laying cycle.

 

[Isadora]

Hello, and welcome to BYC! I'm so glad you decided to join our friendly and helpful community.

 

[Tookie]

Hello and welcome to BYC!

 

[Dr Evy]

Good morning and welcome to BYC Randol. We’re so glad you joined!
Good luck with your hens!

 

[janiedoe]

Hi Randol, welcome to BYC.
What type of feed do they eat? Do they have oyster shell or another form of calcium available at all times?

 

[Randol]

Hello, Randol, and welcome to BYC. At 2 years of age they may be taking a normal break in their laying cycle.

Thank you for responding. I know for certain there's no best, as for taking a break, I did not know they took one in the Spring. Now they did not stop laying during the winter so maybe it's time for one.

 

[Randol]

Hi Randol, welcome to BYC.
What type of feed do they eat? Do they have oyster shell or another form of calcium available at all times?

My scratch grain that is hand-milled, I do not buy from box stores, they get oyster and lots of chicken egg shells.

 

[janiedoe]

My scratch grain that is hand-milled, I do not buy from box stores, they get oyster and lots of chicken egg shells.

Then, I'd explore the free range area. As @N F C says, they hide nests. I find nests pretty often. Unfortunately, my dogs do too.