Have you ever reached into the nesting box and wondered, "Why is my hen laying soft eggs?"
If so, you aren't alone.
Soft eggs are often your hen’s way of saying something's off, whether it’s her diet, stress, or other health concerns.
Let’s break down how eggs develop and what you can do to help your hens lay strong, healthy eggs.
How Eggs Are Made
Eggs actually form from the inside out – starting with the yolk (or ovum) – and finishing with shell formation. The yolk starts out as a tiny cell, maturing into a yolk while in the hen’s ovary.
It’s then released into a tube called the oviduct. The first part of the oviduct – the infundibulum – is where an egg is fertilized if a rooster is present.
The next section is called the magnum, and it’s where the egg white is added.
The shell membrane is then added in a third section called the isthmus.
Finally, the shell or calcium gland (uterus) is where the shell is formed by depositing calcium around the shell membrane.
The entire process takes about 24 hours, with the shell formation taking at least 20 hours.
If something disrupts the calcium deposit stage, the egg shell will be soft.
The Calcium Connection
Strong shells rely on calcium.
In fact, if a hen is not getting enough calcium, her body will actually pull calcium out of her bones to use for eggs – which can be dangerous.
Soft eggs indicate the shells are not getting enough calcium. There are several reasons this can occur:
- Calcium deficiency – Hens need an average of 4 to 5 grams of calcium each day when they are laying.
- Poor calcium absorption – Hens can’t absorb calcium properly without Vitamin D3. Sunshine exposure naturally provides this important vitamin, but providing a feed with added Vitamin D3 can help ensure your hens are getting enough.
- Phosphorus imbalance – Too much or too little phosphorus may also interfere with their calcium absorption. This often results from an unbalanced diet.
A fantastic way to help ensure your hens get enough calcium and phosphorous is by adding our 100% fine flaked Premium Oyster Shells to their diet. Naturally rich in calcium carbonate, our oyster shell flakes provides the ideal calcium-to-phosphorus ratio.
Stress and Environmental Factors
While a hen’s diet is essential to proper egg formation, it’s not the only factor that can contribute to soft shells.
If your hen is feeling stressed, her body may rush the egg-laying process by shortening or even skipping the shell development process.
Stressed hens also have a harder time absorbing key nutrients.
Common chicken stressors include:
- Loud noises
- Overcrowding
- Bullying by other chickens
- Predatorial threats
- Sudden changes in temperature
- Overheating
- Frigid Conditions
- Changes in daylight
- Moving to a new environment or flock
- Illness
- Predators
To help your hens have a relaxed, stress-free laying experience, pay attention to their environment.
- Make sure your hens have enough space and roosting/nesting spots.
- Protect them from the elements by providing adequate indoor and outdoor space. Chickens especially struggle in hot temperatures as their bodies hold on to heat. Providing fans, misters, ventilation, and plenty of water can help your chickens cool down.
- Minimize loud noises in their vicinity and protect against predators
- Offer enrichment to minimize boredom
- Keep the coop clean, safe, and comfortable
Other Issues
While adjusting dietary and environmental concerns can often fix the issue, soft shells can also be due to health concerns, including bacterial or viral infections or parasites.
No matter the cause, soft shells are an indicator that something is “off” with your hen.
Reach out to your vet if you continue to have concerns.
Disclaimer: We are not veterinarians, and none of our information should be construed as veterinary advice.
Before adding any new product, please consult your exotic veterinarian. If your pet is acting unwell and you have concerns for their well being, please contact your vet immediately.
