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There can be many reasons why a chicken stops laying eggs, but understanding the causes can help you take steps to get your chicken back to laying. Here are some of the most common reasons why a chicken stops laying eggs and what you can do about it.
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Age: As chickens age, their egg production naturally declines. A chicken that is over 3-4 years old may stop laying eggs altogether.
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Seasonal changes: Chickens' laying patterns can be affected by the changing seasons. In the fall and winter, days are shorter and the chickens may not lay as many eggs or stop laying altogether.
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Stress: Chickens can become stressed due to changes in their environment, such as a new chicken being added to the flock, a new predator in the area or a change in their diet.
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Disease or illness: Chickens that are sick or diseased will often stop laying eggs. Common illnesses that can affect egg production include mites and lice, coccidiosis, and avian influenza.
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Nutrition: Chickens require a balanced diet to lay eggs, if they don't receive enough protein, calcium, or other essential nutrients, they may stop laying eggs.
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Lack of daylight: Chickens require a certain amount of daylight to lay eggs, if the coop doesn't have enough natural light or the chicken is kept in a dark place, it can affect its laying.
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Broodiness: A chicken that is broody, that is, sitting on a nest and trying to hatch eggs, will stop laying eggs until she finishes her brooding period.
What you can do to get your chicken back to laying:
- Provide your chicken with a balanced diet that includes adequate protein and calcium.
- Check for signs of disease or illness and consult with a veterinarian if necessary.
- Make sure the coop has enough natural light or provide artificial light to increase the amount of daylight.
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If your chicken has stopped laying eggs and you're unsure why, it's a good idea to consult a veterinarian or poultry expert. They can help you identify any potential health issues or other problems that may be causing your chicken to stop laying eggs.
Overall, determining the cause of a chicken stopping to lay eggs can be a bit of a mystery, but understanding the possible reasons can help you diagnose and fix the problem. With proper care and management, your chicken should start laying eggs again soon.