Why do eggs change as hens mature?

Chickens can live for many years and continue to lay eggs for many of these years. However, after two or three years many hens significantly decline in egg laying. This reduction varies greatly from bird to bird. Good layers will often lay for about 50 to 60 weeks and then may have a rest period called a moult, whereas some hens will continue to produce an egg a day for much longer periods.  

Poorer layers and older hens can moult more often and lay less consistently. This is often due to being smaller or thinner birds before starting to lay. These birds can be less resilient to the stresses and physiological costs of laying. 

Producing a 50g egg every day, consisting of fat and protein, is a marked demand on the hen. If the hens have even a short feed or water interruption, due to their supply running out, from being bullied, feeling unwell or uncomfortable in their environment (like during excessively hot weather), their resultant loss of bodyweight can result in them starting to reduce egg production. This can be through intermittent laying or stopping laying altogether. Laying may restart when the hens start to eat and become fitter or healthier. 

How can you help aged hens? 

You can support older hens to produce eggs by supplementing them with energy, protein, Calcium and D3. As hens get older they may find it harder to metabolise Vitamin D into its active form so providing them with the active form of Vitamin D can help them further. This is especially important if they are laying throughout winter, when sunlight levels are lower. 

Preparing food for your hens  

Be aware that food destined for your birds should never have entered your kitchen, unless your household is 100% vegan and that includes your pets. Prepare your food outside, in the shed or keep a designated chicken cupboard outside your kitchen for them instead. Ensure you use utensils that have never been in contact with products from animal origin in order to protect your birds.