v2002brown Posted March 3, 2008 Share Posted March 3, 2008 Hello there, can anyone help i have 3 hens only one is laying but today ive noticed there were 2 eggs but they were very soft shell. Could this be from the 2 who arent laying yet? has anyone one had soft shells 1st round? what can i do to help ? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Egluntyne Posted March 3, 2008 Share Posted March 3, 2008 It is possible that the first couple of attempts could be shell-less, and just a blip as their egglaying tackle settles down. What are you feeding them on? Good quality layers pellets contain the essential nutrients required for egg laying. Try not to give them too much in the way of treats as they crowd out the good stuff. Also limit their free ranging, for the same reason. Have they got free access to mixed poultry grit to which they can help themselves ad lib. It contains calcium, and insoluble grit to grind down their food for maximum absorption. I swear by Limestone Flour, which you can get from an equestrian shop, or from ebay (usually sold for reptiles). It is a very easily absorbed form of calcium, and a spoonful stirred into their pellets a couple of times a week will work wonders if it proves to be an ongoing problem. You can also bake crushed eggshells for a few mins in the oven (don't burn them.....the smell is unforgettable! ) and stir them into their pellets too. Good luck! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
v2002brown Posted March 3, 2008 Author Share Posted March 3, 2008 i seem to be doing all what you are saying i feed them pellets what i got from the farm, i have grit always available. I only give them corn or treats every now again. I think ill buy some limeflour give that a try. Thanks for that Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TAJ Posted March 3, 2008 Share Posted March 3, 2008 I first had a shell less egg, then the next day my first hen started laying, a week on and two soft shell eggs and then my second hen started laying. Today 2 'normal' eggs from those two, plus one shell-less and one softshell - given my third hen started crouching two days ago I am sure this is just her first attempt. Like you I was worried with the first one, but now third time round I am a bit more relaxed about it. Let shope this is the start of your eggs! Tracy Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...