Hello I'm new to the forum but I'm in need of some urgent advice. I recently took on 10 ex bats (Rhode Island Reds) and 2 ducks. To add to my 1 chicken (the others had passed on) and 4 geese. They got on fine and eggs where plentiful how ever the eggs started to reduce from 6 a day to 4 to 2 to none. It's been that why for over a month now, I've had a few instances where the geese have been very violent towards the hens and have now since separated them. I've changed the hens from corn to layers pellets, sealed up the draft windows and put extra bedding down but still no eggs. I did take on some cocks and hens for a friend but after a few days of asserting dominance they got on fine and egg production stayed the same. I have found 2 dead chickens not sure how they died though I think the geese may have done this hence the separation. All the hens look healthy after their moult and are happy as larry wondering round in their pen. I don't know what else to do so any advice would be a appreciated. Thanks in advance Gregg
Hi, Gregg - welcome to BYC, glad you found us! There are many reasons this could happen; most likely reason is that when the daylight hours shorten, this tell the hens to slow down in laying and often times to stop completely. They need a break, so their systems sort of shut down for awhile. I would think espeically in this case, since these are ex battery hens. They were in full production mode at the factory, and they probably are in dire need of some time off. It's never a good idea to feed solely corn for the diet as this is lacking in many nutriets they need. I would keep them on layer pellets and also offer them oyster shell in a separate bowl so they can eat what they need. It could also be that they are hiding their eggs outside of the coop if you free range them, or if there are places they can get to that you cannot see (like under your coop, in bushes, etc.). Check around. Also, it's possible that they have become egg eaters, although it doesn't sound like that's the case here. You would likely find wet spots in their nest boxes, and some would have dried yolk on their faces. I would keep doing and allow them a break - you will likely be blessed with many eggs as a result once they are rejuvenated!
