No. they can if they have a rooster though
Yes. Most grain/feed stores have special layer complete feed that gives the new pullet the extra calcium and protein needed for good egg production. Hens raised for egg production should be started on this feed about one month before expected egg production. This means they can be switched from chick grower, over to layer mash or pellets at about 12 to 16 weeks of age.
Unfertilised, all large companies keep their laying hens separate from their breeding hens and cockerels.
The same as other laying hens - layer feed, preferrably organic crumbles.
They shouldn't effect the process of laying eggs. It's always up to the hens attitude for that day.
A little dog food once in a while will not hurt the laying hens, however do not substitute dog food for a balanced layer feed. The layer feed has been formulated to be nutritionally complete and meet the needs of a laying bird with the correct protein, fat and calcium numbers. A full diet of dogfood will cause problems down the line health wise and especially egg wise since it is not formulated for hens.
Feed design to meet the requirements of laying hens. Usually higher in energy levels, protein w/ certain amino acids increased to meet higher need and increased mineral levels especially Ca. It is ok for male bird and non laying hens to eat for short periods of time and also it is a waste of money to feed these expensive feeds to non laying birds.
Cold weather does effect a hens laying. when the temperature is below 55 degrees or so this can effect a hens production. Mainly though the reduction in hours of daylight causes hens to stop laying. Anything below 14 hours of daylight will cause a hen to stop laying.
Yes, you can, but after that you must dry it and prefferably cut it up.
Hens laying eggs are typically fed a specific type of ration known as layer feed, which is formulated to meet their nutritional needs during the laying period. This feed usually contains higher levels of calcium, protein, and phosphorus to support egg production and shell quality. Additionally, layer feeds often include vitamins and minerals to promote overall health and optimal egg-laying performance. The feed can come in various forms, including pellets, crumbles, or mash.
Typically, hens should be fed 1/4 to 1/3 pound of laying mash per day per bird. Adjust the amount based on the number of hens you have and their individual egg production. It's important to monitor their body condition and egg production to determine the right amount for your flock.
Laying hens primarily eat a balanced diet that includes commercial layer feed, which is rich in nutrients, proteins, and calcium to support egg production. Their diet typically consists of grains, such as corn and wheat, along with protein sources like soybean meal and minerals. Additionally, hens may consume greens, insects, and other natural foraging materials when allowed to roam. Fresh water is also crucial for their health and egg-laying capabilities.
Yes, hens do lay unfertilized eggs. In commercial poultry farms, hens are typically kept separate from roosters, which means the eggs they lay are not fertilized. These unfertilized eggs are collected for consumption. The laying process is a natural cycle for hens, regardless of whether the eggs are fertilized or not.