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Egg eating is a common problem among backyard chickens, and it can be caused by a variety of factors. Here are some ways to deal with egg eating hens in your coop:
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Identify the culprit: The first step in dealing with egg eating hens is to identify which hen is responsible for the behavior. This can be done by observing the coop or by setting up a surveillance camera.
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Increase egg production: One way to reduce egg eating is to increase egg production, which can be done by providing more nesting boxes, increasing the amount of light, or feeding a higher protein diet.
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Provide additional food: Another way to reduce egg eating is to provide additional food, such as scratch grains or vegetables, which can help to keep the hens from getting bored and turning to eggs as a food source.
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Remove broken eggs: Broken eggs should be removed from the coop as soon as possible, as they can attract hens to start eating eggs.
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Provide extra calcium: Chickens who don't get enough calcium in their diet may resort to eating eggs as a source of calcium. Provide them a calcium supplement such as crushed eggshells or oyster shells.
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Try deterrents: Some deterrents such as hot pepper sauce or apple cider vinegar can be applied to eggs to discourage hens from eating them.
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Isolate the offender: If you are able to identify the hen that is eating the eggs, you can isolate her in a separate pen, to stop her from continuing the behavior and prevent other hens from learning it.
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Reduce stress: Reduce stress in your flock by providing a comfortable environment, enough space, food, and water. Stress can trigger feather pecking and egg eating.
It's important to remember that egg eating can be a symptom of an underlying problem, such as a lack of food or nutrition, so addressing these underlying issues is key in reducing or eliminating the behavior. It's also important to be patient and persistent in implementing these solutions, as breaking a habit can take time.
In conclusion, egg eating is a common problem among backyard chickens, and it can be caused by a variety of factors. Identifying the culprit, increasing egg production, providing additional food, removing broken eggs, providing extra calcium, trying deterrents, isolating the offender and reducing stress are some ways to deal with egg eating hens in your coop. It's important to remember that egg eating can be a symptom of an underlying problem, such as a lack of food or nutrition, so addressing these underlying issues is key in reducing or eliminating the behavior. It's also important to be patient and persistent in implementing these solutions, as breaking a habit can take time.