Soft eggs & calcium

[crystalsc]

I have two barred rock hens that are almost three years old. One or both have been inconsistently laying for the last several weeks and I keep find completely soft (deflated balloon style) eggs. They have access to a separate container of oyster shells but I’ve never seen them eat any at all. I’ve cut down their scratch intake over the last couple of weeks in hopes that eating more of their layer crumbles would help. But so far I’m not seeing a difference. Is it time to try a calcium supplement? If yes, can you recommend a brand?

It is worth noting that they were traumatized in Feb. 8th when one of the hens was killed by a hawk while they were free ranging. They have been much more skittish since then and hesitant to come out of their run.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Eggs without shells is generally from stress as they push the eggs out before the shell can be applied. Considering you had a predator attack that is probably the reason.

It might help to add things to run so they can hide under and not feel so vulnerable.

Hens in general don't consume much oyster shells as they stay in the body a long time. I have more than a 100 chickens and will buy around 2 bags a year, 50 pounds each.

 

[Mrs. K]

Really there is little you can do. I had an old time tell me that it will clear up in a week if you treat it, and in 7 days if you don't.

I know it is irritating, but perfect eggs are kind of a myth. We get perfect eggs in the store. And we don't really realize that those are highly sorted. So a variance of eggs is actually normal.

However, looking at your picture, and the age of your hens, you might add some new birds? It is much easier to take imperfect eggs IF you are at least getting some good ones. Younger hens tend to have better eggs - oh course they have glitches too, in the beginning.

Mrs K

 

[crystalsc]

Eggs without shells is generally from stress as they push the eggs out before the shell can be applied. Considering you had a predator attack that is probably the reason.

It might help to add things to run so they can hide under and not feel so vulnerable.

Hens in general don't consume much oyster shells as they stay in the body a long time. I have more than a 100 chickens and will buy around 2 bags a year, 50 pounds each.

Thank you. I can definitely make some hidey spaces for them. I didn’t realize they don’t munch on them much. I appreciate the tips.

 

[crystalsc]

Really there is little you can do. I had an old time tell me that it will clear up in a week if you treat it, and in 7 days if you don't.

I know it is irritating, but perfect eggs are kind of a myth. We get perfect eggs in the store. And we don't really realize that those are highly sorted. So a variance of eggs is actually normal.

However, looking at your picture, and the age of your hens, you might add some new birds? It is much easier to take imperfect eggs IF you are at least getting some good ones. Younger hens tend to have better eggs - oh course they have glitches too, in the beginning.

Mrs K

Thank you. I’m not irritated by a lack of eggs. I am more worried about her health.
We definitely have room for more birds and I want more. Hubby who was saddened by the hawk attacks (so tender hearted ) doesn’t want more. But I may talk him into it.