How to Cure an Egg Eating Hen

There are several reason why a hen might begin to eat its own eggs. If the egg shells are thin, they may often break, which is a sign of poor nutrition in the hen. Hens that do not have a proper diet and those who do not get enough fresh water often turn on their own eggs as a source of food or liquid nourishment. Stress and lack of nesting supplies or boxes may also contribute to the problem. If you have a hen that is eating her own eggs, there are several ways to stop it.

Things You'll Need

  • Calcium supplements
  • Chicken feed for egg-laying hens
  • Nesting boxes
  • Fresh nesting material
  • Fresh water
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Instructions

    • 1

      Provide hens with a well-balanced and nutritious diet. Ensure that they get enough calcium by feeding them calcium supplements. Switch to a chicken feed designed specifically for egg-laying hens. Increasing the hens' calcium intake will thicken the eggshells, making them less likely to break.

    • 2

      Provide enough nesting boxes for your hens. It is essential to provide at least one nesting box for every four hens in the flock. Position the nesting boxes at least 2 feet off the ground and several feet away from the roosts.

    • 3

      Keep nesting boxes filled with at least 2 inches of clean, dry nesting material. Check the boxes frequently to ensure that the nesting material stays fresh.

    • 4

      Collect eggs early and often. Make at least one round early in the morning to collect any eggs before the hens have a chance to eat them. If you have a major problem with your hens eating eggs, begin checking the nests several times a day until the problem is under control.

    • 5

      Remove any sources of stress that affect the hens and the nesting area. Do not allow any bright light to shine into the nesting boxes and do not disturb the hens while they are nesting. If any of the hens are particularly broody and causing stress to other hens, relocate them.

    • 6

      Provide hens with a healthy living environment. Give them plenty of space, healthy food and fresh water to keep them healthy and happy. Content hens are less likely to develop behavioral problems, such as eating their own eggs.