how often to chickens lay eggs

how often to chickens lay eggs

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Nature

On average, healthy young hens lay eggs roughly every 24 to 36 hours, which translates to about one egg per day during their prime laying period, typically their first laying season

. Most hens start laying eggs around 18 weeks of age and can produce up to about 250-300 eggs in their first year, which averages close to one egg nearly every day

. However, egg-laying frequency varies depending on several factors:

  • Breed: Some breeds like Hy-Line, Lohmann, and ISA Brown are bred for consistent year-round laying, while others may stop laying during molting seasons or colder months
  • Age: Egg production peaks around 25-30 weeks of age and gradually declines after the first year, with hens laying about 80% of their initial egg count in the second year
  • Season and Daylight: Egg laying typically decreases in fall and winter due to shorter daylight hours unless supplemental lighting is provided
  • Health and Nutrition: Proper diet and overall health significantly influence laying frequency

In practical terms, many backyard hens lay about one egg every other day, depending on breed and conditions, averaging roughly 3-4 eggs per week per hen in favorable seasons

. In summary, a typical hen lays close to one egg per day during peak laying periods, but this rate can slow to about one egg every two days or less depending on breed, age, season, and care

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