The video discusses a chicken farmer’s experience with reduced egg production and how the introduction of grit helped improve digestion, leading to stronger eggshells and increased egg yield. It highlights the importance of proper grit size and storage, and also introduces a membership program for farmers seeking detailed information and support.
How to Boost Egg Production in Your Chickens
Introduction
Have you ever faced the issue of your chickens not laying as many eggs as they used to? It’s a common problem for many chicken farmers, and it can be quite frustrating. Recently, I noticed that my egg basket was not as full, which got me worried. My chickens seemed perfectly healthy, so I decided to investigate.
Finding a Solution
As a responsible chicken farmer and animal scientist, I turned to research for answers. After some thorough reading and good old-fashioned Googling, I stumbled upon an interesting article highlighting the benefits of grit for egg production.
The Benefits of Grit
Grit helps chickens grind up their feed in their gizzards, leading to better digestion and stronger eggs. Intrigued by this, I decided to give it a try. I headed to my local feed store and picked up a bag of grit.
Implementing Grit in Your Coop
I placed a dish of grit in the chicken coop and ensured my hens also had access to high-quality laying feed. The results were amazing! My egg basket is now full again, and the eggs have stronger shells with fewer cracks. Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the best.
What is Grit?
For those unfamiliar, grit consists of small hard substances, usually granite or volcanic stone, given to chickens to aid in the digestion of their food. Some grit is also made from oyster shells, adding extra calcium to the diet, which further strengthens eggshells.
How Grit Works
When chickens consume grit, it goes into their gizzards and helps break down feed into smaller particles. This improved digestion allows chickens to absorb more nutrients, enhancing egg production. Additionally, the calcium in grit aids in forming stronger eggshells.
Common Mistakes with Grit
There are two main pitfalls to avoid when giving grit to chickens:
- Size of Grit: The grit particles should be medium-sized. If the particles are too small, chickens may not be able to pick them up. Conversely, if they are too large, chickens may struggle to consume them.
- Quantity of Grit: Ensure you provide the right amount of grit. Too little won’t be effective, and too much can take up space in the chicken’s stomach, leaving less room for other nutritious foods.
Proper Storage of Grit
When not in use, store grit in a dry, cool place, and keep it sealed to avoid contamination. Contaminated grit can harm your chickens, so proper storage is crucial.
Conclusion
The introduction of grit into my chickens’ diet has significantly improved egg production and the quality of the eggshells. If you’re experiencing similar issues, I highly recommend giving grit a try. It could make your breakfast a little more egg-cellent!
Additional Tips
For those looking to further boost their chickens’ growth, particularly broilers or meat chickens, consider Moringa leaf extract. Research has shown that it can significantly increase the weight of chickens.
By implementing these simple yet effective strategies, you can enhance your chickens’ health and productivity, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality eggs.
