Reduced Egg Production

[hucker]

We have 16 hens in 300ft^2. They are a mix of 6 month old and 18 month olds. We were typically getting about 8 to 10 eggs a day at the beginning of the summer and now it is more like 3 to 5. I would have expected things to be improving since the younger chicks should be coming 'on line'.

Nutrition hasn't changed nor has water. We have had a warm July with temps in the 80's on the nice days (plenty of shade though. My only thought is that the 3 kids are home from school so there is more time for them to 'play' with the chickens. Does this kind of stress reduce egg laying? What other issues should I be looking for?

Thanks!

 

[faykokoWV]

I know heat and cold can slow egg production. I'm not sure what else could be going on.