Shell-less Eggs

[haileyeverhart]

My white leghorn hen keeps laying shell-less eggs. I give my chickens plenty of outdoor space and give them back their eggs and egg shells so no lack of calcium or protein here. Her breed is naturally skinny so I'm afraid with her laying shell less eggs at least 2-3 times a month, her nutrition would be poor. She loves foraging and eats fine, and acts fine. Her feathers though have been very ratty. Overall she just looks gross but behaves normally. I always thought maybe she was eating them after laying but i watched her tonight (I know weird sometimes she lays before bed) and I didn't hear any egg shell cracking as it came out and she didn't even eat it after. She didn't seem in pain during or after. So should I be worried? She is 3 years old.

 

[azygous]

If this problem with egg quality has only been recently, coupled with your hen's "ratty" appearance, it's likely associated with onset of molt. Egg quality can deteriorate as molt commences, stopping all together during the molting period.

One of the benefits of molt and the breather from egg laying is not just to get a new outfit of feathers, but it restores egg quality. What's happening to your hen is normal and there's no need to be concerned.

 

[haileyeverhart]

If this problem with egg quality has only been recently, coupled with your hen's "ratty" appearance, it's likely associated with onset of molt. Egg quality can deteriorate as molt commences, stopping all together during the molting period.

One of the benefits of molt and the breather from egg laying is not just to get a new outfit of feathers, but it restores egg quality. What's happening to your hen is normal and there's no need to be concerned.

Thank you!!

 

[aart]

What is her basic feed?