Irratic Shelless Eggs

[marcie17]

I have one Rhode Island Red who was a good layer for the first few months who is now laying shelless eggs daily. Every now and then I'll get a shelled egg out of her, but it's becoming more infrequent. They have free choice grit, oyster shells, and layer feed. They also free range. Any ideas?

 

[Kelsie2290]

How old is she? Is she the only one who is doing it and the rest of the hens/pullets are OK? From what they write about them, if it is one bird in a flock it is usually a problem with that individual's shell gland. If you have more than one doing it on a regular basis look to disease/disturbances and feed/water for the flock.
http://www.thepoultrysite.com/publi...ndbook/16/thinshelled-eggs-and-shellless-eggs

 

[marcie17]

She's about 6 months old. The gland seems to make sense. Great website and info! Thanks!