Stopped Laying

[ReelFaster]

Hi gang, I noticed one or two of my girls started molting late August. Not long afterwards I noticed the other two appeared to be molting as well. While this was occurring of course they stopped laying. Then the daylight shift started and we lost some daylight. I haven't gotten an egg probably since late Aug or early Sept. I know they slow way down in the winter months but wondering if something else is going on.

I've checked them for any pests, inspected their poo for any signs of issues or worms. They act normal, eat, drink, follow me and run around all looking healthy for the most part. Some of their crowns are pale but I attributed that to molting and winter time. Two of them are on the older side 3-4yrs while other are 2-3yrs old. My Speckled Sussex will be 2yrs year old this April and usually lays in the winter.

I've noticed months back we had some raccoon prints on the roof of the coop, they never attacked or got into the coop. I've also noticed something is eating all the chicken feed left out in the run so I've since moved into the coop to save $$. Not sure what is eating it, could be the neighbors cat, we have coons, skunks, possums, etc.. Not sure if they are scared, older age, the molt, daylight....etc...

 

[nuthatched]

All the reasons you've listed is why they aren't laying, hens who lay their first winter, don't lay in the second, molting, winter, etc.

I doubt the neighbors cat is eating the feed, probably the other animals. Like raccoon. You can sprinkle some cornstarch for a track trap.

 

[ReelFaster]

Thanks for the reply, much appreciated. I just didn't know they they could go that long without laying and was looking for some confirmation especially since its all of them not laying. I was just out there and def see racoon tracks and from time to time there are items knocked over into the run area off the shelves so something is certainly in there.

 

[Mrs. K]

I am in the same boat...waiting, waiting and buying expensive store eggs. Not buying any more...dear hubby is a bit worried.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Thanks for the reply, much appreciated. I just didn't know they they could go that long without laying

Completely normal, my oldest birds go even longer without laying. They can start molting as early as July and may not resume laying until March or April.

 

[ReelFaster]

I am in the same boat...waiting, waiting and buying expensive store eggs. Not buying any more...dear hubby is a bit worried.

Same here, my wife and couldn't believe the price of eggs this holiday season. Looking forward to having they start laying again.

 

[ReelFaster]

Completely normal, my oldest birds go even longer without laying. They can start molting as early as July and may not resume laying until March or April.

Thank you for this, much appreciated!!

 

[ReelFaster]

Ma

I've noticed months back we had some raccoon prints on the roof of the coop, they never attacked or got into the coop. I've also noticed something is eating all the chicken feed left out in the run so I've since moved into the coop to save $$. Not sure what is eating it, could be the neighbors cat, we have coons, skunks, possums, etc.. Not sure if they are scared, older age, the molt, daylight....etc...

Put a trail cam in the coop the past week and found this guy. Not a great picture but at least I know who's eating the food like someone mentioned it was probably the racoon.

 

[My Very First 6 Chickens]

My 5 chickens are almost 2 yrs old and their first molt started this past aug/sept. I have not had a single egg since! I thought I was alone, but learned now that i am not. I just got home from running to the grocery store to buy, guess what? EGGS. Yes. 4.50 for 6 eggs. Ugh, i cant wait for spring! Chickens are molting and doing really well otherwise.

 

[Forevercats]

A raccoon will kill your flock. They'll do it just for fun. I'd be securing that outer pen area or close the door at night. Those boogers will get in your coop if they find a way. Trap the coon and relocate it miles and miles away.

Ma


Put a trail cam in the coop the past week and found this guy. Not a great picture but at least I know who's eating the food like someone mentioned it was probably the racoon.

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