The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Poultry & Waterfowl => Topic started by: Jakebob on July 09, 2014, 11:13:50 pm

Title: Soft shells on eggs?
Post by: Jakebob on July 09, 2014, 11:13:50 pm

Some of our hens appear to be laying eggs with really soft shells. Their eggs used to be brown but now they are a lot paler and really soft shells. Hens have been wormed, they are on layers pellets and also adlib egg shells. Any suggestions?

Title: Re: Soft shells on eggs?
Post by: devonlad on July 09, 2014, 11:30:25 pm

It could be dietary but if they're on layers ration it really should contain enough calcium for good shells. We always have extra grit and shell available but to be honest they don't bother with it much. When ours start popping out soft eggs or ones with odd shapes or uneven shells it usually means they're getting on a bit and heading towards end of laying life

Title: Re: Soft shells on eggs?
Post by: Jakebob on July 09, 2014, 11:36:50 pm

Thank you, that's exactly what I thought...but wanted to hear other people's opinions/advice.

Title: Re: Soft shells on eggs?
Post by: nimbusllama on July 10, 2014, 07:55:10 am

I agree with everything Devonlad has said... if you can identify the 'culprits' it might be better to cull them before their soft shelled eggs encourage egg eating! Sorry not to have a better solution.  :(