Reasons Why Poultry Might Not Lay
Hens may stop laying or may not lay for a number of reasons.
- The age of the hen - as they get older the amount of eggs may reduce.
- The health of the hen - illness or parasites can hinder laying.
- The time of year - the length of daylight can affect egg production.
- Changes in the type of food given - this may cause problems as the nutritional content of the food may vary.
- The introduction of new birds to the flock - this may cause undue stress for the hens as they re-establish a pecking order.
- Significant changes in routine - can cause stress for the birds.
- Housing conditions - unclean, overcrowded, dark and cold conditions can cause stress and or illness which may affect egg production.
- Handling and movement of the poultry - transporting hens, overhandling, incorrect handling and sudden handling may hinder laying if this causes stress for the birds.
- Vermin and predators - the presence of rats, mice, cats, dogs and foxes may frighten the poultry or cause undue stress.
