Question about RSL and egglaying

[JanetS]

I have 3 RSL and 2 white leghorns. They are around 15 months and have been laying eggs since they were about 18 weeks. We've had no issue with the leghorns, but the RSL sometimes have problems laying their eggs. Today one of them(Drumstick) was quiet and lethargic so we knew something was wrong. We separated her from the others and just gave her some quiet time. After about 15 minutes< out comes an egg in the run. They are usually better after this but still a little sleepy. I know this can be a serous issue. Should I give them a teaspoon of olive oil say.. once a week. Would this help? This happens about once a month between the three of them. Thank you.

 

[realsis]

I think some extra calcium might help. it stimulates the gland that helps them lay. I bought liquid calcium for mine because she also had a tough time. it seems to help. also the olive oil might be a good idea.

 

[JanetS]

Where do you buy liquid calcium?

 

[Fred's Hens]

The reality is this. Most of these RSL lines have been bred to actually be commercial layers. Their breeding puts their egg laying, early in their lives, into high gear. The downside of this breeding is that many of these birds suffer ovarian and reproductive issues. The commercial houses do not mind as they flip the flocks, all in all out, within a couple of years anyhow.

Since there are more strains of these RSLs than varieties of heirloom tomatoes there is no way to make sweeping general statements that cover all the birds, but for far too many, this is a genuine issue. I've not had any experience with calcium making a bit of difference, nor olive oil. Sorry to be the bearer of not so good news, perhaps, but it is what it is.

 

[JanetS]

Thank you for your replies. The same hen has had some more problems but is doing good now and laying just fine. I was hoping I could do something more to help but I'm not surprised there isn't much that can be done. I think I'm going to give them a little olive oil (and some liquid calcium) once a week just to do something.