replacing hens

[ams4776]

Since my hens are solely for eggs and im probably only gonna hatch one batch of eggs a year for meat...how many years does the avg hen do well with laying eggs? These hens are just a mix breed who lay excelment for me right now. But would i want to consider replacing with new hens by next year possibly?

 

[Dogfish]

I've heard there is good production for up to 3 of 4 years depending on breed, while some say they have hens who produce well for longer than 6 years.

How you rotate your flock would entirely depend on your use though. Is this a business venture, selling excess eggs you don't need, or just raising enough eggs for the family?

My plan is to add 4-5 hens per year. Started out with 16 last year, lost 4 over 12 months, 2 to dogs, one?, and another broke an egg inside. We sell our excess eggs to cover our feed bill.

 

[ams4776]

Im just starting with eggs and meat for the family. Thus im gonna hopefully be able to incubate my eggs and raise chicks for meat. So far my girls are providing just enough eggs for the most part. Thanks for the info.