Suddenly we have noted that all eggs has gone for our ChickCoop, at first we thought it could be a thief who has broken into our farm and have stolen all the eggs lain everyday by our hens. We investigated and look around for any sign of thief, but there was no sign of anything around the farm. Then we thought that it must be the rats that are stealing the eggs but the nest we have made the nest for our hen is on the wall and it is not possible for the rats to get in. Then we observe our chicken for a day and we discovered that there is a hen (culprit) which is eating the eggs in the farm. Sadly when she crack the egg other hen follow her and join the dinner. In this blog we’ll discuss the cause of cannibalism of chicken (Egg eating habit of hens) and how to avoid it.

 Raising chickens can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with its share of challenges. One of the frustrating and potentially costly issues that poultry keepers may encounter is egg eating by hens. This behavior, if left unchecked, can lead to reduced egg production and economic losses. In this blog post, we will explore why hens engage in egg eating and provide practical tips on how to prevent and address this issue.

Why Do Hens Eat Eggs (5 Cause)

Egg eating in hens can be a learned behavior or a response to various factors. Understanding why hens might consume their own eggs is essential to addressing the problem effectively:

  1. Nutritional Deficiencies: Hens may eat eggs if they are lacking essential nutrients in their diet, such as calcium or protein. Ensuring a balanced and nutrient-rich diet is crucial.
  2. Boredom and Stress: Chickens are intelligent creatures that require mental stimulation and physical activity. If they become bored or stressed due to overcrowding, lack of entertainment, or other factors, they may start pecking at eggs as a form of diversion.
  3. Thin or Weak Eggshells: Thin or brittle eggshells can break easily, making it tempting for hens to consume the contents. Ensure hens have access to a steady supply of clean, fresh bedding and maintain their calcium intake for strong eggshells.
  4. Bad Nesting Conditions: Dirty or crowded nesting boxes can lead to broken eggs, which may trigger egg eating. Provide clean, comfortable nesting areas for your hens.
  5. Cannibalism: Sometimes, egg eating begins as a result of cannibalistic tendencies within the flock. Address aggression issues and remove aggressive birds if necessary.

Preventing Egg Eating in Hen ( 7- Remedies)

Now that we understand some of the reasons behind egg eating, let’s explore ways to prevent and manage this behavior:

  1. Collect Eggs Frequently: The more often you collect eggs, the less opportunity hens have to peck at them. Make it a routine to gather eggs at least twice a day.
  2. Provide Proper Nutrition: Ensure your hens receive a well-balanced diet rich in calcium and protein. Commercial poultry feeds are formulated to meet their nutritional needs.
  3. Improve Nesting Conditions: Keep nesting boxes clean and comfortable, with ample nesting material like straw or shavings. Adequate nesting space can also prevent eggs from getting accidentally broken.
  4. Egg Deterrents: Some poultry keepers use fake or wooden eggs to deter hens from pecking at real ones. Place these deterrents in the nesting boxes to discourage egg eating.
  5. Isolate Offenders: If you identify specific hens engaging in egg eating, isolate them temporarily until the behavior stops. Reintroduce them when they no longer show interest in eggs.
  6. Reduce Stress: Minimize stressors in the coop by providing adequate space, entertainment, and socialization opportunities. Avoid sudden changes or disturbances in the environment.
  7. Be Patient: It may take time and consistent effort to break the habit of egg eating. Patience and persistence are key to success.

Conclusion

Egg eating in hens is a challenging behavior to tackle, but with the right strategies and attention to their needs, you can prevent and manage it effectively. A healthy diet, clean and comfortable nesting areas, and a stress-free environment can go a long way in ensuring your hens remain productive and content.

Remember that each flock is unique, and you may need to adapt these strategies to fit your specific circumstances. By addressing egg eating promptly and proactively, you can maintain a productive and happy flock of chickens.