Tag: Laying hens

While protein is a critical nutrient for egg formation and overall hen health, scientific studies show that a higher protein percentage isn't always better for laying hens. Finding the optimal balance is key to ensuring consistent egg production and avoiding health complications in your flock.

Despite being a popular and enjoyable treat for backyard chickens, most commercial chicken scratch contains little to no calcium. Understanding the stark difference between these energy-dense grains and a nutritionally complete layer feed is crucial for the health of your flock and the strength of their eggshells.

Up to 40% of a hen's bone calcium can be mobilized for eggshell formation when dietary intake is insufficient, highlighting why knowing what is a good source of calcium for a chicken is vital for maintaining a healthy flock. Ensuring adequate calcium prevents health issues and improves eggshell quality.

A hen's age is often the primary factor influencing egg size, with younger and older birds producing smaller eggs than those in their prime. If you've recently noticed your eggs getting smaller, it's likely a natural change or a symptom of manageable issues related to nutrition, environment, or health.

Purina high-protein chicken feed is specially formulated with a blend of ingredients to meet the dietary needs of different flock members. The specific ingredients in Purina high-protein chicken feed vary depending on the product line, such as Layena+ High Protein or Flock Raiser, but generally include a mix of grains, plant-based proteins, and specialized supplements for optimal nutrition.

According to the USDA, less than 1% of commercially laid eggs contain blood spots. Seeing a bloody egg from your backyard flock can be startling, but understanding the root causes is key to determining if it's a minor issue or a serious health concern for your chicken.

Over 95% of a dry eggshell is calcium carbonate, yet despite this consistency, the final shell thickness can vary dramatically. Why are some eggs thicker than others is a complex question with multiple contributing factors related to hen health, nutrition, and environmental conditions.

Over 90% of a chicken's diet should be a complete commercial feed, making supplements a targeted addition rather than a dietary staple. Deciding what is the best supplement for chickens hinges on assessing their life stage, health, and whether their primary feed is truly complete.

According to agricultural data, commercial egg producers lose an estimated 6–8% of eggs due to poor shell quality, costing the industry billions annually. This guide reveals essential strategies for poultry owners on how to improve egg shell quality, focusing on diet, environmental factors, and proactive management to reduce cracks and defects.

Protein is one of the most important nutrients for hens, playing a vital role in egg production, feather growth, and immunity. But what is the ideal protein content for laying hens to support optimal performance and well-being?