Care Tips for Healthy Hens: How to Keep Your Flock Thriving
Raising layer hens is an investment in fresh, wholesome eggs. Your hens will perform best if they have room to live and roam, nutritious feed, fresh water, and a safe, comfortable coop to nest and roost.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Provide at least four square feet of space per hen, with sufficient perches and nesting boxes for comfort.
- Protect your hens by using sturdy fencing and closing the coop at night to guard against predators.
- Choose a balanced feed rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals for optimal nutrition and strong eggshells.
- Always keep fresh water and feed available, and provide oyster shell or grit to support digestion and calcium levels.
Provide Enough Space and Comfort
Your coop should have a minimum of four square feet of space per hen, and one perch and one nest box for every four or five hens. Spread a 6-inch layer of shavings or sawdust on the floor to absorb droppings and give the birds a place to take a dust bath. Chickens tolerate temperature extremes but will suffer in cold winter drafts or stifling summer heat. Make sure the coop is free of drafts during the winter and well ventilated in the summer.
Protect Your Flock From Predators
Protect your chickens from predators by keeping them penned within good, sturdy fencing and closing the coop door each evening after your flock goes to roost.
Feed for Strong Shells and Consistent Laying
Because hens rarely find enough nutrients on their own for a complete, balanced diet, your choice of feed is important. Select one with the protein, vitamins and minerals they need to meet their unique nutritional requirements. Keep feed and fresh, clean water available at all times. Give your hens oyster shell or coarse-ground limestone to help maintain their calcium levels and grit to help them digest their food. An occasional treat of scratch grains will satisfy their pecking instincts and keep them busy.
Pro Tip: A complete layer feed like Nutrena NatureWise Layer Crumble or Country Feeds Layer Pellet ensures your hens get the right nutrition for strong shells and healthy eggs.
