Are you tired of searching for answers to the question, 'Why are my birds not laying?' Look no further! In this article, we'll delve into the numerous factors that could be affecting your birds' egg production and provide you with the knowledge you need to get your flock back on track.

SOURCE OF CHICKS

It's important to be aware that various breeds possess unique qualities in regard to egg laying and nutrition. Hence, obtain your birds from trustworthy farms or hatcheries to avoid frustration. Furthermore, for a farmer, conducting necessary research on the breeds available is a must.

NUTRITION

It's crucial to select the right food from the outset. The optimal feed must offer a balanced ratio for your laying birds. Researching other successful farmers to identify the best quality feed in the market can be beneficial. An imbalanced ratio can result in problems in the flock. Supplementing with calcium is recommended for stronger eggshells. According to a scientific study that was published in 2015 by J. A. Hernandez and L. R. Matthews, it was revealed that providing hens with a balanced and adequate diet, including proper levels of essential nutrients, had a significant impact on both egg production and quality. Hens consuming diets with adequate levels of nutrients tend to produce more eggs, and the eggs usually have higher levels of certain nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals. Sudden changes in feed can decrease egg production as different companies have varying feed formulation ingredients. It takes time for laying birds to adjust to the new feed, which can temporarily decrease egg production. Feed changes should be made gradually to prevent a decrease in egg production, especially for farmers in commercial production. Maintaining a consistent schedule and routine, such as regular feeding and egg collection, is also advised. Hazardous activities should be avoided.

 WATER SUPPLY

According to P. A. Thaxton and J. J. Rhoads (2019), water plays a crucial role in the growth and productivity of poultry. Water is essential for digestion, temperature regulation, excretion, and the maintenance of overall health. The need for providing adequate water to poultry is non-negotiable as a shortage of water can lead to decreased feed intake and reduced growth and productivity.

Provide clean water for your birds at all times. If the water is not safe for human consumption, it's not suitable for birds either. Clean the drinkers thoroughly every morning and supply fresh water to the birds. Ensure there are enough water stations available for your flock. Birds are known to consume twice as much water as they do feed.

LIGHTING PROGRAM

Lighting plays a vital role in egg production for laying birds. A consistent 14 to 16 hours of light is needed for consistent egg production. Since daylight hours change in different seasons, it is impossible to provide sustained natural light for 14 hours. Hence, it is suggested to supplement with artificial light to make up for this deficit. Key elements of lighting include duration, intensity, and spectrum. These three factors are crucial, especially for commercial farms aiming to establish an efficient lighting program for their flocks."

LAYING AGE

Laying hens typically start to lay eggs between the ages of 16 and 18 weeks. It is not advisable to expect them to lay before this time. Hens will continue to lay for approximately 50 to 60 weeks before undergoing a moulting period. After the first moult, hens will resume laying but will continue to moult every year. Hens with lower egg-laying capabilities will moult more frequently, affecting egg production."

MOULTING

Moulting is a natural event for laying hens where they replace their feathers. During this time, egg production stops as the birds redirect their energy towards growing new feathers. As a farmer, it's essential to maintain a balanced and high-quality diet for your chickens during moulting. Chickens have distinct personalities and will experience the moulting process differently. Some may lose only a few feathers and have them grow back in just a few weeks, while others may lose many feathers and take 12 to 16 weeks for their feathers to regrow."

Handling Chickens During Moulting:

·         Minimize stress as much as possible

·         Chickens should maintain their normal behaviour; if they appear sickly, it is a sign that something is wrong and requires your attention.

·         Avoid handling birds during this time as it can cause pain and increase stress.

·         Laying hens will lose their feathers in a sequential manner, starting from the head, neck, back, breast, and finally the tail feathers. The new feathers are called pinfeathers and will grow in the same order they were lost.

·         Moulting is a normal and natural process of shedding and regrowing feathers.

The best support you can provide to help your chickens during moulting is to provide a high-quality, high-protein feed."

PEST, DISEASE AND PARASITE INFESTATION

As a farmer, it's crucial to control pests, diseases and parasites to prevent significant losses in your farming business. Proper vaccination is essential. A routine for cleaning the chicken house and applying poultry dust is highly recommended to keep lice and mites in check. Regular deworming is also necessary to control worm infestations, which can negatively impact egg production.

STRESS (WEATHER, CHANGE OF FEED, DEBEAKING /VACCINATIONS,

OVERSTOCKING)

Stress can result in a reduction in egg production. To avoid this, ensure that the chicken coup has enough space and is arranged according to the recommended standards for laying hens, and provide comfortable areas for egg laying. Weather changes and vaccination can also cause stress in birds and decrease egg production.

BREED OF BIRDS

The selection of the breed is crucial in making a well-informed decision from the outset. The type of chicken you choose to raise depends on the desired end product. As a farmer, it's important to thoroughly research and understand these factors to ensure a successful start.

WORD OF ADVICE

Several factors can impact a decline in egg production in your birds. Proper record-keeping is crucial for farmers to determine the cause of the problem. Keeping accurate records can provide the valuable history to diagnose the issue. If you notice a decrease in egg production, consider the following questions:

Ø  How old are my birds?
Ø  Am I providing the correct feed rations?
Ø  Have I recently changed the feed?
Ø  Is the feed of good quality and free from toxins?
Ø  How much light is my flock exposed to?
Ø  How clean and poultry-friendly is my chicken coup or house?
Ø  Are the birds given adequate clean water?
Ø  Are there any signs of diseases?
Ø  Are there parasites present?  

And many more can be added to the list. This highlights how sensitive laying hens are, and that's why it's essential for farmers to understand what is causing the decline in egg production so that it can be addressed promptly and production can return to a profitable level.

In conclusion, there are many factors that can impact egg production in birds, but with proper understanding and care, you can keep your flock healthy and productive. By following best practices for feeding, housing, and overall health, you can ensure that your birds are comfortable and lay to their fullest potential. If you ever experience a decline in egg production, don't panic, simply refer to your records and assess the situation. With the right information and a proactive approach, you'll be able to get your birds back on the laying path and continue to enjoy the rewards of your poultry farming business."