7 Important Daily Checks for Maximum Egg Production as a Poultry Layer FarmerIf you're a poultry layer farmer, you know that consistent egg production doesn't happen by luck—it’s the result of daily commitment and proper flock management. Whether you're running a small backyard setup or a commercial operation, overlooking small issues can lead to big drops in production.
To help you keep your hens healthy and productive, here are 7 important daily checks every poultry layer farmer should carry out.
1. Feed and Water Supply
The first thing to check every morning is your hens’ access to clean water and balanced feed. Layers need a well-formulated diet rich in calcium, protein, and other nutrients to maintain high egg output.
🔍 Check that:
Feed trays aren't empty or contaminated.
Waterers are clean and filled with fresh water.
💡 Tip: A drop in feed or water intake can be a red flag for illness or stress.
2. Egg Collection
Collect eggs at least twice a day to maintain hygiene and prevent breakage. Leaving eggs in the nests can lead to pecking habits, which are hard to stop once they start.
🔍 Check that:
Eggs are collected early in the morning and again in the afternoon.
Any cracked or dirty eggs are removed promptly.
💡 Tip: Record the number of eggs collected daily to monitor production trends.
3. Hen Behavior and Activity
Spend a few minutes each day observing your birds. Healthy hens are active, alert, and vocal. Lethargy, puffed feathers, or isolation could be signs of disease.
🔍 Check that:
Birds are moving and feeding normally.
No hen is limping, isolating, or showing distress.
💡 Tip: Walk through the flock calmly so you don’t disturb their routine too much.
4. Ventilation and Temperature
Proper ventilation prevents respiratory diseases and ensures fresh air flow. Layers are sensitive to extreme heat or cold, which can reduce laying performance.
🔍 Check that:
Fans or vents are working properly.
There’s no buildup of ammonia smell from droppings.
💡 Tip: Install thermometers and hygrometers to monitor barn conditions daily.
5. Nest Boxes and Bedding
Clean, comfortable nesting areas are essential for quality eggs. Dirty or overcrowded nests can result in soiled eggs and increased stress for hens.
🔍 Check that:
Nest boxes are clean and dry.
Bedding is fresh and not flattened or damp.
💡 Tip: One nest box per 4–5 hens is ideal.
6. Droppings and Coop Cleanliness
Bird droppings tell you a lot about flock health. Loose or discolored droppings may indicate digestive issues or infections.
🔍 Check that:
Litter is dry and droppings are normal in appearance.
No signs of worms, blood, or excessive moisture.
💡 Tip: Use a deep-litter system or clean out manure trays daily.
7. Security and Predators
Every night and early morning, inspect the perimeter of your coop. Predators like snakes, rats, or even neighborhood dogs can wreak havoc on your flock—and stress alone can cut egg output significantly.
🔍 Check that:
There are no holes, gaps, or signs of digging.
All doors and windows are properly locked.
💡 Tip: Install motion-activated lights or cameras for added security.
Final Thoughts
Daily diligence leads to long-term success in poultry farming. By integrating these 7 checks into your morning and evening routine, you not only protect your investment but also ensure maximum egg production year-round.
Remember, healthy birds are productive birds. And productive birds bring in profit.