How to Get Chickens to Stop Eating their Eggs: Tips and Tricks

Introduction

Chickens eating their own eggs is an issue many poultry owners face. It’s an instinctual behavior that can be difficult to break. Fortunately, there are several steps one can take to help prevent this from happening. In this article, we will explore some tips and tricks on how to get chickens to stop eating their eggs.

Move the Nests to a Higher Location

One of the first steps to take in preventing chickens from eating their own eggs is to move the nests to a higher location. This will make it harder for the hens to reach the eggs, reducing the likelihood of them eating them.

Benefits of Moving Nests

Moving the nests to a higher location has several benefits. It makes it more difficult for the hens to access the eggs, reducing the chances of them eating them. Additionally, since the nests are higher off the ground, they are more protected from predators. It also helps keep the eggs cleaner, as they won’t be exposed to dirt and debris on the ground.

How to Move the Nests

The best way to move the nests is to use a ladder. Carefully lift each nest box off the ground and place it onto the ladder. Then, slowly climb the ladder and set the box in its new spot. Be sure to secure the box so it doesn’t fall off the ladder.

Install a Barrier in Front of the Nest

Another way to prevent chickens from eating their own eggs is to install a barrier in front of the nest. This will create an obstacle between the hen and the eggs, making it harder for her to reach them.

Types of Barriers

There are a variety of barriers that can be used, including chicken wire, plastic mesh, or a solid wall. The type of barrier you choose will depend on your needs and preferences.

Benefits of Using a Barrier

Using a barrier in front of the nest has several benefits. It creates an obstacle between the hen and the eggs, making it harder for her to reach them. Additionally, it protects the eggs from predators and keeps them cleaner, as they won’t be exposed to dirt and debris on the ground.

How to Install a Barrier

Installing a barrier is relatively easy. First, measure the area in front of the nest to determine the size of the barrier you need. Then, cut the barrier to fit and attach it to the sides of the nest box. Make sure it is secured in place and check it periodically to ensure it is still secure.

Change Up the Nesting Material Periodically

Chickens can become accustomed to the same nesting material, making them more likely to eat their own eggs. To prevent this, it is important to change up the nesting material periodically.

Benefits of Changing Nesting Material

Changing the nesting material regularly has several benefits. It prevents the hens from becoming too comfortable with the same material, which reduces the chances of them eating their eggs. Additionally, it helps keep the nesting material clean and free of parasites and other pests.

Types of Nesting Material

There are a variety of materials that can be used for nesting, including straw, hay, wood shavings, pine needles, and shredded paper. The type of material you choose will depend on your needs and preferences.

How to Change Up Nesting Material

To change up the nesting material, start by removing the old material. Then, replace it with the new material and make sure it is evenly distributed in the nest box. Finally, check the material periodically to ensure it is still clean and free of pests.

Provide Enough Food and Water for the Hens

Another way to prevent chickens from eating their own eggs is to make sure they have enough food and water. If they are not getting enough nutrition, they may turn to the eggs for sustenance.

Benefits of Providing Enough Food and Water

Providing enough food and water for the hens has several benefits. It ensures they are getting all the nutrition they need, which reduces the chances of them eating their eggs. Additionally, it helps keep them healthy and productive, which is beneficial for egg production.

How to Provide Enough Food and Water

To provide enough food and water for the hens, start by filling up their feeders and waterers with fresh food and water. Check them regularly to make sure they are full and free of debris. Additionally, offer treats such as mealworms or scratch grains to supplement their diet.

Ensure the Coop is Dark and Quiet

Chickens need a dark and quiet environment to lay eggs. If the coop is too bright or noisy, they may not feel safe enough to lay eggs, or they may become stressed and start eating their own eggs.

Benefits of Having a Dark and Quiet Coop

Having a dark and quiet coop has several benefits. It creates a safe and comfortable environment for the hens to lay eggs, reducing the chances of them eating their own eggs. Additionally, it helps keep them calm and relaxed, which is beneficial for their health and productivity.

How to Ensure the Coop is Dark and Quiet

Making sure the coop is dark and quiet is relatively easy. Start by covering the windows with blackout curtains or shades to reduce the amount of light coming in. Additionally, add sound-proofing materials such as foam panels or insulation to reduce noise levels. Finally, make sure the coop is well-ventilated to reduce humidity levels.

Collect Eggs Regularly

Collecting eggs regularly is another important step in preventing chickens from eating their own eggs. If the eggs are left in the nest for too long, the hens may become hungry and start eating them.

Benefits of Collecting Eggs Regularly

Collecting eggs regularly has several benefits. It prevents the hens from becoming too hungry, which reduces the chances of them eating their own eggs. Additionally, it helps keep the eggs clean and free of dirt and debris.

How to Collect Eggs Regularly

Collecting eggs regularly is relatively easy. Start by checking the nests twice a day and removing any eggs that are present. Store the eggs in a cool, dry place and make sure they are labeled with the date they were collected. Additionally, check the eggs periodically to make sure they are still good.

Conclusion

In conclusion, chickens eating their own eggs is an issue many poultry owners face. Fortunately, there are several steps one can take to help prevent this from happening. These include moving the nests to a higher location, installing a barrier in front of the nest, changing up the nesting material periodically, providing enough food and water for the hens, ensuring the coop is dark and quiet, and collecting eggs regularly. By following these tips and tricks, you can help get your chickens to stop eating their eggs.

Summary of the Article

This article explored tips and tricks on how to get chickens to stop eating their eggs. We discussed ways to move the nests to a higher location, install a barrier in front of the nest, change up the nesting material periodically, provide enough food and water for the hens, ensure the coop is dark and quiet, and collect eggs regularly. Taking these steps can help prevent chickens from eating their own eggs.

Reminder of the Importance of Taking Action

It is important to take action to prevent chickens from eating their own eggs. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can help get your chickens to stop this unwanted behavior.