Egg production is the backbone of a profitable poultry farm. However, even experienced farmers sometimes make feeding mistakes that can negatively impact the quantity and quality of eggs produced. Proper nutrition is essential to maintaining a healthy and productive flock, and small errors in feed composition, quantity, or feeding practices can lead to lower egg production, weak eggshells, or even health issues in laying hens.
This detailed guide explores the most common poultry feeding mistakes, how they affect egg production, and how to correct them to optimize flock performance.
1. Feeding Inadequate Protein Levels
Protein is one of the most critical nutrients for egg production. It supports muscle growth, immune function, feather health, and eggshell formation. Laying hens require 16-18% protein in their diet, depending on their breed, age, and production stage.
Effects of Protein Deficiency on Egg Production
- Lower egg production or complete cessation of laying
- Soft-shelled or misshapen eggs due to a lack of structural support
- Feather loss and pecking behavior as hens try to supplement protein by pecking at each other
- Weight loss and lethargy, leading to overall poor health
How to Fix It
- Use a high-quality commercial layer feed that contains at least 16-18% protein.
- Supplement with natural protein sources, such as:
- Soybean meal (rich in plant-based protein)
- Fish meal or meat meal (animal-based protein source)
- Sunflower meal (good alternative for farmers avoiding soy)
- Dried mealworms or black soldier fly larvae (natural protein boost)
- Avoid excessive grains in the diet, as they dilute protein levels.
2. Providing Too Much or Too Little Calcium
Calcium is crucial for strong eggshell formation. Hens that don’t get enough calcium will lay thin-shelled, fragile eggs that break easily. On the other hand, too much calcium can lead to kidney damage and other metabolic issues.
Signs of Calcium Deficiency
- Eggs with thin, weak, or broken shells
- Hens eating their own eggs to supplement calcium
- Weak legs, reduced activity, and skeletal problems
Signs of Excess Calcium
- Kidney damage leading to lethargy and weight loss
- Chalky deposits on eggshells
- Poor nutrient absorption
How to Fix It
- Provide a layer feed with 3.5-4.5% calcium.
- Offer free-choice calcium sources like:
- Crushed oyster shells
- Crushed eggshells (dried and baked first to remove bacteria)
- Ensure hens have access to Vitamin D3, which helps with calcium absorption.
3. Overfeeding or Underfeeding Chickens
A balanced diet is essential for optimal egg production. Overfeeding can cause obesity, which reduces laying performance, while underfeeding leads to malnutrition and decreased egg production.
Effects of Overfeeding
- Excessive fat accumulation in the abdomen, making egg-laying difficult
- Reduced egg production due to hormonal imbalances
- Higher feed costs without productivity gains
Effects of Underfeeding
- Weaker hens with poor immune function
- Smaller eggs due to insufficient nutrients
- Hens pecking at each other due to hunger
How to Fix It
- Feed each hen approximately 120-150 grams of feed per day.
- Adjust feed portions based on breed, size, and environmental conditions.
- Provide regular feeding times to ensure consistency.
4. Feeding Too Many Table Scraps and Treats
While occasional treats can be beneficial, excessive scraps disrupt the nutrient balance and lower overall egg production.
Harmful Treats to Avoid
- Bread, pasta, rice, and processed foods (low in essential nutrients)
- Avocado (contains persin, which is toxic to chickens)
- Raw beans (contain lectins that can be deadly)
- Salty or sugary foods (cause digestive problems)
Healthy Treats for Laying Hens
- Leafy greens (spinach, kale, lettuce)
- Vegetables (carrots, pumpkin, squash)
- Berries and fruits (apples, watermelon, bananas)
- Protein sources (mealworms, cooked eggs)
How to Fix It
- Treats should not exceed 10% of the hen’s diet.
- Offer scraps in moderation and ensure layer feed remains the primary food source.
5. Not Providing Fresh, Clean Water
Water is the most overlooked nutrient, yet it plays a vital role in egg formation, digestion, and temperature regulation.
Effects of Dehydration on Egg Production
- Fewer eggs due to disrupted reproductive function
- Thicker egg whites and weaker yolks
- Lethargic and weak hens
- Increased risk of heat stress and disease
How to Fix It
- Provide clean, fresh water at all times.
- Use nipple drinkers to keep water free from contamination.
- Add electrolytes during hot weather to prevent heat stress.
6. Ignoring Seasonal Diet Adjustments
Nutritional needs change with the seasons. Hens require more calories in winter to maintain body heat, while in summer, they need hydration and cooling feed options.
Winter Feeding Mistakes
- Not increasing calories (chickens need extra energy to stay warm)
- Providing cold water, which reduces drinking and feed intake
Summer Feeding Mistakes
- Feeding high-energy grains that increase body heat
- Not supplementing with electrolytes and vitamins
How to Fix It
- In winter, offer warm water and high-energy grains (corn, wheat).
- In summer, provide cooling treats like watermelon and ensure shade.
7. Failing to Control Mycotoxins and Moldy Feed
Moldy feed contains mycotoxins, which can cause serious health problems, reducing egg production and harming hen health.
Signs of Mycotoxin Poisoning
- Diarrhea and weight loss
- Sudden drop in egg production
- Liver and kidney damage
How to Fix It
- Store feed in a dry place to prevent mold growth.
- Discard any feed that has a musty smell or visible mold.
- Use toxin binders if mycotoxin contamination is suspected.
Conclusion
Avoiding common poultry feeding mistakes is essential for maintaining consistent egg production. By ensuring the correct protein, calcium, vitamins, and water supply, and by adjusting the diet seasonally, poultry farmers can significantly improve their flock’s health and productivity.