HELP!!!! My hens quit laying 2 months ago

[Ljc01]

I use a feed that is formulated for free range birds. It has a 21% protein. I use this to make sure they get enough protein because they eat very little feed and lots of fallen fruit, bugs, weeds etc.

 

[cmom]

First My birds have started molting so my egg production is way down too. I would guess they have stopped laying partly due to molting and the ones that are laying may have found a spot to lay their eggs and usually where one may lay so will the others. Sometimes they are quite good at hiding their spot.

 

[BethLouMcCormick]

Might be that they aren't getting enough protein with scratch and forage in addition to feed. Layer pellets have just barely enough protein for egg production, if it's the sole ration. Too many extras will lower the overall protein intake to the point where they just can't produce an egg. Remember that eggs whites are 90% protein, and it has to come from somewhere. Eliminate extras and confine them, just to be sure they aren't hiding eggs somewhere.

whatsthe best thing to add in order to up there portion please

 

[BethLouMcCormick]

whatsthe best thing to add in order to up there portion please

protein I mean sorry

 

[Fairview01]

Did you force molt the hens? To have 100 hens simultaneously molt is unusual imo.

 

[BethLouMcCormick]

Did you force molt the hens? To have 100 hens simultaneously molt is unusual imo.

just wondering how can you force moult them?

 

[junebuggena]

just wondering how can you force moult them?

You can force molt by controlling the amount of light they are exposed to.

 

[BethLouMcCormick]

You can force molt by controlling the amount of light they are exposed to.

so the less light makes them moult ?
how long does moulting usually last ??

 

[junebuggena]

whatsthe best thing to add in order to up there portion please

The most efficient way to increase protein intake is to switch to a higher protein feed. Contrary to popular belief, layer feed is not necessary for eggs. I prefer flock raiser, which is 20% protein content, from hatch till death. Crushed oyster shell is offered separately, free-choice, for those that need the calcium.

 

[junebuggena]

so the less light makes them moult ?
how long does moulting usually last ??

You gradually decrease the amount of light to trick their pituitary gland that fall is coming. Molting can last anywhere from 3 weeks to 3 months, depending on the bird.