Why are my hens laying less when they have lice? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
Lice can make hens stressed, itchy and less comfortable, so a drop in laying can happen while they’re dealing with an infestation. It’s not the only possible reason, though. Reduced laying can also come from moulting, poor diet, changes in daylight, stress or another health issue, so it’s worth checking a few basics rather than assuming lice are the whole story.
Things To Check
1. Look over the hens’ feathers, especially around the vent, under the wings and near the neck, for lice, eggs, broken feathers or bare patches.
2. Check whether the birds seem itchy, restless or are preening more than usual.
3. Notice if any hen has lost weight, seems pale, or is quieter than normal.
4. Review whether they’ve recently started moulting, changed housing, had new birds added, or been under extra stress.
5. Check feed, water and access to a balanced layer ration, because poor nutrition can affect egg production.
6. Look at the coop for dust, debris, damp bedding and signs that parasites could be building up in the environment.
7. Keep an eye on egg numbers for a few days so you can tell whether the drop is mild, sudden or getting worse.
Common Causes
One common reason is simply the discomfort and stress caused by lice, which can distract hens from normal laying patterns. Another very common cause is moulting, which often overlaps with parasite problems and can reduce egg output at the same time.
Lower egg numbers can also happen if hens are underfed, short on water, exposed to changing daylight or unsettled by new flock dynamics, predators or a dirty coop. Less commonly, illness or another parasite burden may be affecting the flock’s condition and laying.
What To Do
Start by checking the flock carefully and noting which birds are affected. Keep the coop clean and dry, remove old bedding, and monitor whether the issue is one hen or the whole group.
Make sure feed and water are available at all times and that the birds are on a suitable layer ration. If lice are present, check all birds rather than just the one that seems worst, because parasites can spread within the flock.
It also helps to keep a simple record of egg counts, body condition and any changes in the coop. That makes it easier to spot whether the laying drop is settling or whether something else may be going on.
Products That May Help
Keeping the coop and flock management routine organised can make it easier to stay on top of hygiene and parasite checks.
Related Questions
How do I know if my hens have lice?
Can moulting and lice happen at the same time?
How often should I clean a coop if I’m dealing with parasites?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.