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Why Have My Hens Stopped Laying?
Phillip J. Clauer, Poultry Extension Specialist, Animal and Poultry Sciences
A common question from small backyard laying flock owners is "Why have my hens stopped laying?"
There are many factors which can cause hens to stop laying and in many cases there are multiple causes
which add up to few or no eggs.
The most common causes of decreased egg production include: decreasing daylength, improper
nutrition, disease, advancing age and stress.
A. Decreasing day length or insufficient day length
Hens require 14 hours of day length to sustain egg production. Once day length drops below 12 hours,
production will decrease and frequently stop. This happens naturally from October through February. To
prevent this, provide artificial light to maintain a constant day length of at least 14 hours per day. One 40
watt light for each 100 square feet of coop is adequate. The lights should be added in the morning hours
so the birds can go to roost as the sun sets. This prevents birds from being stranded in the dark when
lights are turned out during dark hours.
Some small flock owners find it easier to leave the lights on continuously. This is not a problem as long
as you do not use light bulbs over the 40 watt size. However, the time clock will help lower your electric
bill.
B. Improper nutrition
Layers require a completely balanced ration to sustain maximum egg production over time. Improper
nutrition can occasionally cause hens to stop laying.
The most common problem is failing to provide a constant source of fresh water. This is especially a
problem during the coldest months when the water can freeze. Provide adequate water equipment so the
birds always have fresh water.
Inadequate levels of energy, protein or calcium can also cause a production decrease. This is why it is so
important to supply your laying hens with a constant supply of nutritionally balanced layer food
balanced at 16% - 18% protein. Feeding whole grains, scratch feeds and table scraps will cause the birds
diet to become improperly balanced.
Many times these imbalances can cause other problems like prolapse (egg blow-outs). Prolapse is
caused when the bird is too fat and/or egg is too large and the birds reproductive tract is expelled with
the egg. Prolapse usually cause permanent damage to the hen and is fatal in many cases.