Allotment Gardening Advice Help Chat

Poultry and Pets => The Hen House => Topic started by: BML on October 24, 2011, 20:48

Title: Hens have stopped laying.
Post by: BML on October 24, 2011, 20:48

I bought three hens three weeks ago and the first morning there was one egg.  Then we were getting two or three eggs a day.  Five days ago they abruptly stopped laying.  Is there anything I should be doing?

Title: Re: Hens have stopped laying.
Post by: Casey76 on October 24, 2011, 21:53

Well unfortunately this is the season for hens to slow down or stop laying over the winter months.

It actually takes very little to put a hen off lay, so, as I guess your pullets were POL at purchase, it is probably the stress of a new home which has put them off.

Keep feeding a good quality layer pellet (or mash), and ensure fresh water is available, and they should start laying again, though you may not get an egg every single day through the winter :)

Title: Re: Hens have stopped laying.
Post by: Lindeggs on October 24, 2011, 22:01

BML, how old are they and what breed?

Casey has explained it in a nutshell.  If they are older hens they are likely to be taking a rest for the winter.  If they are young pullets the move may have put them off laying.

Either way, the solution is the same:  keep them well fed and watered, give them somewhere safe, quiet and comfortable to sleep, and let nature take its course. :)

Title: Re: Hens have stopped laying.
Post by: BML on October 24, 2011, 22:40

Many thanks.  I'm afraid that I have no idea what what breed they are but your replies makes me less worried and I will follow your sugestions.