About This Resource
Soft eggs, characterized by their bendy or thin shells, are a common issue for chicken keepers. They can result from several factors, including calcium deficiency, the age of the hens, stress, sudden diet changes, or an imbalance in protein and water. To prevent soft eggs, it is essential to provide hens with a steady source of calcium, a balanced layer diet, and a stress-free environment. Monitoring young pullets and older hens is also crucial, as they may require additional care. While occasional soft eggs are not alarming, a consistent occurrence may indicate dietary deficiencies or health issues that require veterinary attention. Proper handling of soft eggs is important to prevent breakage, and they can be eaten if fresh. Overall, maintaining a healthy diet and environment for hens is key to ensuring strong egg production.
Key takeaways
What to know before you act on this, from the SteadScape editors.
- Provide hens with free-choice calcium sources like crushed oyster shells, aiming for 1 ounce per hen daily for strong shells.
- Ensure a balanced layer diet with 16-18% protein, adjusting feed gradually over 7-10 days to avoid stress and digestive issues.
- Create a stress-free environment by providing at least 4 square feet of space per hen in the coop to reduce competition and stress.
- Collect eggs at least once daily to minimize breakage and handle soft eggs gently to avoid damage during collection.
- Best for
- Beginners with backyard chickens; implement changes in early spring for optimal egg production.
- Pairs with
- Chicken Planner for your zone and frost dates.
Source Information
Summary and key takeaways written by SteadScape. How we choose resources
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