Why Do Chickens Stop Laying Eggs? Common Causes And Solutions

Why Do Chickens Stop Laying Eggs?

Egg production is one of the main reasons people keep chickens. So, when your hens suddenly stop laying, it can be worrying and frustrating. Understanding the reasons behind a drop in egg production is the first step to getting your flock back on track. In this post, we will look at the most common causes and explain what you can do to help your chickens start laying again.

Seasonal changes
One of the most frequent reasons chickens stop laying is the change in seasons. Egg production is strongly influenced by daylight hours. As the days shorten in autumn and winter, hens receive less light, which affects the hormones responsible for egg laying. Most chickens need at least 14 to 16 hours of light per day to maintain regular laying.

You can choose to supplement light using an artificial light source in the coop, but this must be done carefully to avoid stressing your flock. Make sure any lighting mimics natural sunrise and sunset patterns and is set on a timer to prevent abrupt changes.

Moulting
Moulting is a natural process where chickens shed their old feathers and grow new ones. This typically happens once a year, often in late summer or autumn. During this period, hens usually stop laying as their bodies redirect energy and nutrients towards feather regrowth.

Good nutrition is especially important during a moult. Provide your flock with a high-protein feed and plenty of fresh water to support feather regrowth and help them return to laying once the moult is complete.

Age
As chickens get older, their egg production naturally slows down. Most hens lay most prolifically in their first two to three years. After that, the number of eggs produced each year gradually declines, though many hens continue to lay for several more years, just at a reduced rate.

If you keep a mixed-age flock, you may find that adding a few younger pullets helps maintain a steady egg supply.

Stress and environmental factors
Chickens are sensitive to changes in their environment. Common stressors that can affect laying include:

• Changes to the flock, such as introducing new birds
• Predator threats or loud noises
• Poor ventilation or overcrowding
• Dirty or poorly maintained coops
• Insufficient food or water

Maintaining a clean, secure and comfortable coop with enough space, proper ventilation, and a regular routine can help minimise stress and encourage consistent laying. For more information, read our Daily Chicken Care Routine post.

Nutrition problems
Inadequate or unbalanced diets are a major cause of reduced egg production. Laying hens require a complete layer feed with the right balance of protein, calcium, vitamins and minerals. Without these, their bodies may not have the nutrients needed to produce eggs.

Always use a quality layer pellet or crumble feed. In addition, provide access to oyster shell grit or another calcium supplement to support strong eggshells. Avoid feeding excessive treats or kitchen scraps, as these can dilute their nutritional intake.

Health issues and parasites
Illness or parasites can prevent hens from laying. Conditions such as egg binding, reproductive disorders, internal parasites, lice or red mite infestations can all interfere with egg production.

If you notice other symptoms such as weight loss, lethargy, pale combs, diarrhoea, or visible parasites, prompt treatment is essential. Regular health checks and preventative care help keep your flock healthy and laying.

Broodiness
Sometimes, hens stop laying because they have gone broody. A broody hen wants to hatch eggs and will sit on her nest rather than continue laying. While broodiness is more common in certain breeds, any hen can become broody.

To encourage a broody hen to return to laying, you will need to ‘break’ the broodiness. This can involve gently removing her from the nest, limiting access to the nesting boxes, and sometimes isolating her temporarily in a well-ventilated broody cage.

Final thoughts
While there are many reasons why chickens stop laying eggs, most causes are natural or easily addressed with good care and management. By identifying the likely cause and taking action, you can usually restore egg production and keep your flock happy and productive.

Disclaimer: The information in this post is for general guidance only. If you are concerned about the health of your chickens or ongoing egg production issues, always seek advice from a qualified poultry vet or professional.

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