Judy Taylor
Introduction: Understanding Hen Laying Habits
Hen laying is an important aspect of poultry farming, as it is a primary source of income for many farmers. However, it is not uncommon for hens to stop laying eggs, or for egg production to decline. Understanding the reasons behind this decline is crucial for farmers to maintain high egg production and profitability.
Several factors can contribute to a decline in hen laying, including aging, nutritional deficiencies, stress, lighting conditions, illness, and environmental factors. In this article, we will explore each of these factors in detail and provide insight into how farmers can address these issues to maximize egg production.
Aging and Hen Laying Decline
As hens age, their egg production naturally declines. This decline typically begins at around 2 years of age and continues as the hen gets older. This decrease in egg production is due to a decline in the number of eggs that the hen can produce, as well as a decrease in the quality of the eggs.
While this decline in egg production is unavoidable, farmers can extend the laying period of their hens through proper management practices. Providing a balanced diet, adequate lighting, and a stress-free environment can help to maintain egg production for a longer period of time. However, at some point, farmers will need to replace their aging hens with younger ones to maintain a consistent supply of eggs.
