Why is my hen eating her own eggs? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your hen is eating her own eggs, the most common reasons are habit, boredom, low calcium, thin shells, or eggs being left in the nest for too long. It’s worth checking the setup and the flock routine first, because egg eating can often become a learned behaviour once it starts.
Things To Check
1. Check when it’s happening. Some hens only peck broken eggs, while others target eggs soon after laying or when the nest box is quiet.
2. Look at the eggshells. Thin, soft or cracked shells can make eggs easier to break and more tempting to eat.
3. Check the nesting area. Hard floors, low bedding, cramped nest boxes or eggs rolling around can all increase breakages.
4. Look for signs of stress or boredom. Overcrowding, not enough space, not enough enrichment, or a lot of disturbance can all play a part.
5. Review feed and water access. Make sure the flock has a complete poultry feed and constant access to fresh water.
6. Check whether eggs are being collected promptly. Leftover eggs give a hen more opportunity to peck and learn the habit.
7. Watch the rest of the flock. If more than one bird is doing it, the problem may be linked to the environment rather than one individual hen.
Common Causes
The most common cause is a broken egg being pecked at, then copied by the hen or flock mates. Once a hen learns that eggs taste or crack easily, the behaviour can become repetitive.
Thin or fragile shells may make eggs easier to damage. That can happen with diet problems, low calcium intake, age, or other laying-related issues.
Boredom, stress, overcrowding and poor nest box design can also make egg pecking more likely. Hens with plenty of space and distraction are often less likely to develop the habit.
Less commonly, an underlying health issue affecting egg quality or laying may be involved. If the behaviour is new, persistent, or happening alongside other changes, it’s sensible to get advice.
What To Do
Start by collecting eggs more often, especially during peak laying times. Remove any broken eggs quickly and clean the nest area so there’s less chance of a hen pecking at leftovers.
Make nest boxes comfortable, quiet and well bedded. If space is tight, try to improve access and reduce competition around the laying area.
Check that the flock is on a balanced layer feed and has fresh water at all times. If you suspect shell quality is poor, speak to a vet or poultry adviser before making major diet changes.
Provide a little more enrichment if needed, such as added space to range, scratch materials, or other flock-appropriate distractions. The aim is to reduce boredom and keep the hens busy.
When To Contact A Vet
Speak to a vet if egg eating starts suddenly, is happening with soft-shelled or misshapen eggs, or if your hen seems unwell, off her food, or has other signs of illness. It’s also worth getting advice if several birds are affected or the problem keeps coming back despite changes to housing and routine.
Products That May Help
Keeping the coop and laying area clean and easy to manage can help support a calmer, tidier egg-collection routine.
Related Questions
Why are my hens pecking at eggs in the nest box?
How can I stop hens breaking eggs?
Do soft-shelled eggs mean my hen needs help?
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.