Why Isn't My Chicken Laying?

If you’ve gotten used to finding a fresh egg (or two!) in the nesting box every morning, it can be a little alarming when the eggs suddenly stop showing up. But before you start wondering what’s wrong with your girls, take a breath.

Changes in egg production are completely normal for chickens, and there are several common reasons your flock may take a break.

Here are a few things to check when the nesting boxes start looking suspiciously empty.

The Season Has Changed

Chickens are heavily influenced by daylight. As the days get shorter in fall and winter, many hens naturally slow down their egg production - or stop altogether for a while. Longer days in spring and summer generally encourage more consistent laying.

This is one reason you may notice your flock’s egg basket looking fuller in the warmer months and a little lighter during winter.

Your Hen Is Getting Older

Age matters, just like humans. Hens typically lay the most eggs during their first couple of years, with production gradually declining as they get older. That doesn’t mean an older hen is done laying - it just means she may not be keeping up with her younger flockmates.

She’s Molting

Finding feathers everywhere? Your hen may be molting.

Molting is the natural process of replacing old feathers with new ones, and it takes a lot of energy. During this time, a hen may dramatically reduce egg production or stop laying altogether. Give her plenty of good nutrition and time to grow that new wardrobe. She’ll get back to business when she’s ready.

Something Has Her Stressed

Chickens may be small, but they can have some big feelings. Changes to their environment can cause stress and temporarily affect laying. Moving the coop, introducing new flock members, predators hanging around, extreme temperatures, illness, or other disruptions can all play a role.

Try to keep their routine as consistent as possible and make sure they have a safe, comfortable place to rest and lay.

She May Be Laying Somewhere Else

Before blaming the season, check the obvious: Where are the eggs?

Some hens decide the nesting box is optional and choose their own secret spot. Make their nesting area comfortable, clean and inviting with Pecking Order Nest Pads, which provide a soft, cushioned surface and help keep nesting areas cleaner.

And if your hens are laying everywhere except the nesting box, Pecking Order Ceramic Eggs can help. Place one or two in the nesting box to encourage hens to recognize it as the right place to lay. Think of them as little “this is where the eggs go” clues.

Give Your Girls a Little Time

The good news? A temporary slowdown in egg production is usually nothing to panic about. Pay attention to changes in your hens’ environment, keep their coop clean and comfortable, provide proper nutrition and fresh water, and give them a safe place to do what chickens do best.

And remember: every chicken has her own schedule. Sometimes the best thing you can do is give your girls a little time - and keep checking the nesting box.

After all, the best surprises are the ones you find in the egg basket.