Stopped laying...

[MK farm]

Hi, I have 3 americaunas we got as tiny chicks the beginning of March (so about 5 1/2 mo old) one started laying about a month ago and the other 2 probably a week later... although not every day at that point. A few times I did get 3 eggs a day, but mostly the last 2 + weeks I've gotten 2 eggs a day, and the last 2 days only 1 each day, and so far today, nothing.... ??
Are they still getting into a schedule ? Is something wrong? I feed layer crumbles and some oyster shell. (Along with occasional meal worm treats)

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

They are sporadic layers, so expect production to go up and down and for them to take breaks.

 

[Cindy in PA]

Are these Ameracaunas or EEs? EEs have been some of my best layers, but I would imagine Ameracaunas lay less. Days are getting shorter, so if you don't add light, I would imagine even new layers lay less. I use light, so couldn't tell you how much less they lay.

 

[lazy gardener]

Are these Ameracaunas or EEs? EEs have been some of my best layers, but I would imagine Ameracaunas lay less. Days are getting shorter, so if you don't add light, I would imagine even new layers lay less. I use light, so couldn't tell you how much less they lay.

Exactly what Cindy said, almost word for word. Unless you bought them from a breeder, or paid about $10 or more per chick, you have EE, not Ams. IMO, EE are better layers, and I often like their egg color more, based on my limited experience. If you want to keep your flock laying through the winter, you may need to supplement your light. Do your homework on that one. There are those who will say that supplementing is a bad thing. I say, based on your location, supplementing can be a very good thing. Without supplementing, my flock would be free loading from Oct through mid Feb. I give them a fall break, then start ramping up the light. There is a right and a wrong way to supplement light, so read up on it if you decide to do so.

 

[aart]

Welcome to BYC @MK farm!

I've had great EE layers and some major slackers too.

Do you free range?