One of the most common concerns among poultry keepers is when chickens suddenly stop laying eggs. While a drop in egg production can sometimes indicate a problem, it is often caused by natural factors such as seasonal changes or the age of the hen.
Understanding the reasons behind reduced egg production can help you manage your flock effectively and ensure your chickens remain healthy and comfortable.
This guide explains 15 common reasons why chickens stop laying eggs, along with what poultry keepers can do to support their birds.
Shorter Daylight Hours
Daylight plays a major role in egg production. Hens usually require around 14–16 hours of light per day to maintain consistent laying.
During autumn and winter, shorter days naturally reduce egg production.
Many hens will slow down or stop laying during winter months and resume again in spring.
Moulting
Once a year, chickens go through a natural process called moulting, where they shed old feathers and grow new ones.
During moulting:
Moulting typically occurs in late summer or autumn and can last several weeks.
Age of the Hen
Egg production naturally declines as chickens age.
Most hens lay the most eggs during their first year of laying, and production gradually decreases after that.
Many hens remain productive for 2–3 years, although they may continue laying occasionally for several more years.
Poor Nutrition
Hens require a balanced diet to produce eggs consistently.
A proper laying diet should include:
Most poultry keepers feed a complete layers pellet or layers mash, which provides the nutrients needed for egg production.
Insufficient nutrition can quickly affect laying.
Lack of Calcium
Calcium is essential for eggshell formation.
Without enough calcium, hens may:
Providing oyster shell grit or calcium supplements can help support shell production.
Stress
Stress can disrupt egg laying.
Common causes of stress include:
Extreme weather
Illness
Health problems can affect egg production.
When a chicken becomes unwell, the body prioritises survival over egg production. Signs that illness may be affecting laying include:
If illness is suspected, the bird should be monitored closely and veterinary advice may be required.
Parasites
External parasites such as mites and lice can weaken chickens and reduce egg production.
Signs of parasite problems may include:
Regular coop cleaning and inspections can help prevent infestations.
Broodiness
Some hens develop a strong instinct to sit on eggs in order to hatch chicks. This behaviour is called broodiness.
Broody hens usually stop laying eggs and spend long periods sitting in the nesting box.
Signs of broodiness include:
Not all breeds become broody.
Change in Diet
Sudden changes in feed can temporarily disrupt egg production.
Chickens often need time to adjust to new feeds or feeding routines.
Gradual changes to diet help minimise disruption.
Overcrowding
If chickens are kept in cramped conditions, stress and competition can reduce egg production.
Adequate space is important for healthy flocks.
Typical recommendations include:
Nesting Box Problems
If hens do not feel comfortable laying eggs in the nesting boxes, they may stop laying or lay eggs elsewhere.
Nesting boxes should be:
Providing enough nesting boxes also helps prevent competition.
Extreme Temperatures
Very hot or very cold weather can affect egg production.
During extreme heat, chickens may:
Providing shade, ventilation, and fresh water helps chickens cope with hot weather.
Egg Eating
Sometimes eggs appear to stop because hens begin eating them.
Egg eating can start accidentally if an egg breaks.
Once hens develop the habit, they may deliberately break eggs.
Collecting eggs regularly helps reduce this problem.
Hidden Nests
If chickens are allowed to free range, they may find hidden places to lay eggs.
Owners may believe the hens have stopped laying when the eggs are simply being laid elsewhere.
Checking areas such as bushes, sheds, or long grass may reveal hidden nests.
Supporting Healthy Egg Production
To encourage consistent egg laying, poultry keepers should ensure their chickens have:
Healthy chickens living in good conditions are far more likely to lay regularly.
Temporary drops in egg production are normal and often linked to natural factors such as moulting, seasonal changes, or the age of the hen.
By understanding the most common causes, poultry keepers can better support their flock and ensure their chickens remain healthy and comfortable.
Educational Disclaimer
This guide provides general information about chicken egg production and common causes of reduced laying. It should not replace professional veterinary advice. If you are concerned about the health of your chickens or a sudden drop in egg production, consult a qualified poultry veterinarian.
