Why Do Chickens Eat Their Eggs

The poor feeding of these domestic birds can lead to this delicate situation; The organization of the hen house also has to do, as it could be caused by simple poor lighting

Chickens are the most abundant birds on the planet, due to their breeding for commercial purposes. In general, it is usually a simple and profitable breeding, which requires a medium initial investment. Many breeders are scared when they watch their hens eat their eggs.

Unusual behaviors in chickens

First of all, we must understand that any change in an animal’s behavior can be a symptom of an imbalance in its body. It does not matter if the raising of the chickens is for commercial or simply recreational purposes. It is essential to be vigilant with unusual behaviors, to maintain the good health of these birds.

These domestic birds should not feed on their own eggs, as this would be a risk to the survival of their species. Naturally, a hen should take care of her eggs after laying, to ensure the birth of her chicks.

If the birds were to consume their eggs, they would make a break in their natural reproductive cycle. And that would make little sense in a balanced environment.

However, in the face of adversity or imbalances in their habitat, many birds can adopt unusual behaviors in order to survive. Food shortages, for example, could lead hens to eat their eggs to make up for nutritional deficiencies. But there are other possible causes, which we list below.

Why do chickens eat their eggs?

Usually this behavior stems from a minor accident. The hen accidentally hits an egg with its beak and discovers a rich substance inside. From there, you can get into the habit of breaking your own or someone else’s eggs to consume the fats and proteins they contain. For this reason, artificial incubation is usually highly recommended.

As we can see, an unbalanced diet can also lead a hen to eat its own eggs. Generally, it is a protein or calcium deficiency, found in abundance in the shell, in the yolk and in the albumen. Poor hydration can also lead the hen to break the eggs.

An error in the lighting of the chicken coop can also lead to unusual behavior. Excess light over nests, for example, can encourage hens to eat their eggs. In addition, if the nests are located on the ground or have little filling, this behavior can also appear.

How to avoid the situation where chickens eat their eggs

Some simple preventive measures are often very effective when chickens eat their eggs.

1. Balanced diet

First of all, it is crucial to offer them a balanced diet, rich in protein, good fats, vitamins and minerals. A well-fed hen will not have to look for the essential nutrients for its development in its own eggs. To avoid calcium deficiency, you can add powdered seashells or minced egg shells.

In addition, it must be remembered that laying hens usually require a special diet. There are exclusive commercial feeds for laying hens, with already balanced nutritional proportions. Investing in a high-quality diet means getting a healthier chicken and better quality eggs.

It is also essential to leave fresh and clean water available to your chickens throughout the day. Hydration is also a key factor for the quality of the eggs.

1. The organization of the chicken coop

It is essential to review the organization of the hen house and think strategically about the location of the nests. It is necessary to avoid that the nests remain on the ground or receive little filling inside. The nests must have enough material to be stable and protected, avoiding any accident before, during and after laying.

In addition, the laying place should be quiet and have low light, so as not to stress the laying hens. A stressed bird can present numerous behavioral problems, including consuming its own eggs.

1. Identify and isolate the ‘problem’ hen

When observing missing eggs or finding eaten eggs, it will be critical to identify the responsible chickens. These birds are extremely intelligent and can learn quickly from the behavior of their peers.

You will need to observe them during laying and incubation to recognize which hens eat their eggs. Afterwards, it will be necessary to separate them from the other birds to prevent them from continuing to eat the eggs from the henhouse. And also prevent the behavior from ‘spreading’ to other individuals.