Shell less eggs

[bigz1983]

I have mixed flock of
-old hens that still lay eggs(3)
-pullets not at point of lay(7)
-old hens that don't lay(1)
-pullets that just started laying(2)
-1.5 year old hens laying alot(5)
-22 week old rooster(1)

I have been feeding my entire flock "Armada hatch to hen non medicated"
18% protein
Its low calcium .05-1.5%(safe for youngsters/roos/old non layers)
with oyster shell free choice in a dish.

Well now I'm getting shell less eggs from my older hens that still lay.

Are they not eating enough oyster shell?

 

[alexa009]

Calcium is mostly of what the egg shell is composed of and either they are not getting enough of it or it could be a problem with the uterus. I would raise the calcium level in the hens feed or give them more oyster shells if possible. You should separate your rooster if possible when eating if you don't feel comfortable eating to high of calcium which is understandable since it isn't good for their them.

 

[aart]

Well now I'm getting shell less eggs from my older hens that still lay.

Are they not eating enough oyster shell?

Are they eating the OS?
It's coming on time for molt, you can see some funky eggs as they ramp down production.

 

[bigz1983]

I believe they are eating the crushed oyster shell.

I haven't seen them eat it but I periodically refill the crushed oyster shell in a dish.

So someone must be eating it.

I got my first chickens about 2 years ago and this is the first time I have ever seen shell less eggs.

 

[ejtrout31]

if u dont have oyster shells or need more save left over egg shells and mix in their feed

 

[aart]

I believe they are eating the crushed oyster shell.

I haven't seen them eat it but I periodically refill the crushed oyster shell in a dish.

So someone must be eating it.

I got my first chickens about 2 years ago and this is the first time I have ever seen shell less eggs.

I'm betting it's just the fall ramp down...those old girls will soon stop laying and start to shed feathers.