Soft egg

[MamaRedd77]

I found a soft shelled egg under the roosting poles this morning. I am not sure as to which hen laid it. This is fourth soft egg I have found. Why does this happen? I also am not sure of how old my hens are. Can someone please tell me how old they are? I was told they where 3 months old back in April when I bought them.See photos.

 

[Silkie owner]

Are they eating enough calcium? That can effect the eggs shell

 

[MamaRedd77]

Are they eating enough calcium? That can effect the eggs shell

I am feeding them Purina Layena layer feed and they also get a little dish of oyster shell.

 

[Egg Snatcher]

How long have you been feeding them that

 

[MamaRedd77]

they have on Layena for 3 months now and the oyster shell for 2 months. I bought them in April and was told by the seller they had just started laying eggs in April also

 

[rosemarythyme]

With the oyster shell, do you actually see them eating it - i.e. levels going down in the container, or catching them in person, etc.?

 

[MamaRedd77]

I have noticed the level going down and I see them peck it when free ranging. I use the bottom of a Gatorade bottle for the oyster shell dish for 2 hens.

 

[humblehillsfarm]

I get soft shelled eggs every so often. Bloopers just happen sometimes. Heat can also increase likelihood of laying soft shelled eggs because the heat affects calcium absorption. Also, some hens just don't like eating oyster shells. I find all of mine go wild of egg shells but ignore the oyster shells. However, to me it doesn't sound like a lack of calcium. If it is due to lack of calcium absorption, it is phosphorus which helps the body absorb it and you can try feeding your hens some phosphorus rich foods. Cooked lentils, pumpkin or squash seeds, and cottage cheese are some common good sources of phosphorus. Make sure they have plenty of water sources to aid with hydration. Honestly, I wouldn't worry too much unless it keeps happening.

 

[LizzzyJo]

I wouldn’t worry. This happens with young layers. It could be one or a few of them. You’re feeding them right and free ranging, so I think it’s just a bit of a blip. I bet it will clear up soon.
It could also be stress or extreme heat. Remember to give cold water on hot days.

 

[MamaRedd77]

Thanks y'all, I found another one today. Hopefully it's just where they are adjusting to a new coop and being moved and the heat. I am watching them like hawks.