Hens laying shell-less eggs, Why and How to solve issue

Summary

In this informative video, Ed Hammerly explores the reasons why hens may lay eggs without shells. He discusses common causes such as pullets' immature systems, calcium deficiency, improper diet, aging hens, and stress. Ed advises on providing high-quality feed, adding oyster shells, and avoiding stress. He also briefly touches on medical issues like the inability to absorb calcium and egg drop syndrome. Viewers are encouraged to learn more about chicken care through Ed's YouTube channel.

Takeaways

• 🐣 **Young Hens**: Pullets might lay shell-less eggs as their systems are still adjusting to egg production.
• 🥚 **Calcium Deficiency**: Lack of calcium can lead to shell-less eggs; feeding high-quality, organic layer feed and occasional oyster shells can help.
• 🌾 **Diet**: A balanced diet with essential vitamins and minerals is crucial for proper egg formation.
• 👵 **Aging Hens**: Older hens nearing the end of their laying period may produce eggs with irregularities.
• 🐺 **Stress**: Predators and continuous agitation can stress hens, affecting egg formation.
• 🏥 **Medical Issues**: Medical problems such as the inability to absorb dietary calcium or issues with the shell gland can cause shell-less eggs.
• 🧂 **Diet Too High in Salt**: A diet high in salt can lead to shell-less eggs.
• 🥚 **Egg Drop Syndrome**: This is a medical condition that can result in shell-less eggs.
• 📹 **Demonstration**: The video shows the difference between a regular egg and a shell-less egg, highlighting the membrane and texture.
• 📺 **Further Learning**: The speaker encourages viewers to explore more videos on chicken care, egg issues, and chicken coop upgrades.

Q & A

Why might a chicken lay an egg without a shell?

A chicken might lay an egg without a shell due to factors such as pullets just starting to lay, calcium deficiency, old age, stress, or medical problems.

What is the simplest reason for a chicken laying shell-less eggs?

The simplest reason can be that the pullets (young hens) are just starting to lay and their systems aren't fully developed yet.

How can calcium deficiency affect a chicken's egg production?

Calcium deficiency can lead to chickens laying eggs without shells, as calcium is a crucial component of eggshell formation.

What type of feed is recommended for egg-laying hens?

A high-quality, preferably organic, egg-laying feed is recommended to ensure chickens receive the necessary nutrients.

Why is it suggested to add oyster shells to a chicken's diet?

Oyster shells are a great source of calcium and can supplement the diet to prevent calcium deficiency, which can lead to shell-less eggs.

How can feeding table scraps affect a chicken's egg production?

Feeding table scraps can lead to a lack of essential vitamins and minerals, which can affect the quality of the eggs, including the possibility of shell-less eggs.

At what point in a hen's life might she start laying eggs without shells?

A hen might lay eggs without shells at the beginning of her laying career or towards the end when she is older.

How can stress affect a chicken's egg production?

High levels of stress can disrupt the egg formation process, potentially leading to shell-less eggs.

What are some medical problems that could cause a chicken to lay shell-less eggs?

Medical problems such as the inability to absorb dietary calcium, issues with the shell gland, a diet too high in salt, or egg drop syndrome could cause shell-less eggs.

What does the speaker do with the egg that is shown in the video?

The speaker demonstrates the softness of the shell-less egg by poking it and rolling it around under the camera.

What additional topics does Ed Hammerly cover in his YouTube videos?

Ed Hammerly covers topics such as chicken watering systems, assimilating birds, dealing with egg issues, rookie butchering experiences, and upgrading chicken coupes.