Best Chickens To Lay Eggs (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for a reliable source of fresh eggs, raising chickens in your backyard is a great idea. But not all chickens are great egg layers, so it’s important to carefully consider your options before buying. When choosing the best chickens to lay eggs, there are a few factors to consider.
Firstly, consider the breed of chicken. While all chickens lay eggs, some breeds are more prolific layers than others. For example, Leghorns are known for their egg-laying abilities and can lay up to 280 eggs per year, while heavier breeds like Cochins may lay fewer eggs but often have larger and more flavorful ones.
Another factor to consider is the age and health of the birds. Generally, younger hens lay more eggs, and you’ll want to make sure you’re getting hens that have been raised in a healthy environment free of disease and parasites.
If you’re considering getting into backyard chicken farming and want to know more about the best chickens to lay eggs, keep reading. Are you interested in free-range chickens or ones that can adapt well to small, urban spaces? What are the best breeds for those who want to sell their eggs locally? Learn all this and more with our comprehensive guide to choosing the best chickens for egg production.
10 Best Chickens To Lay Eggs
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It is ideal for raising up to 10 chickens and providing them with a safe and comfortable living environment.
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Ideal for providing hens with a secure and comfortable nesting spot to lay eggs.
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The product is ideal for training hens to lay eggs inside nest boxes.
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4
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Ideal for providing a sturdy nesting box with lid cover to protect poultry eggs and accommodate up to 15 hens.
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5
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The product is ideal for housing multiple chickens in a backyard with ample space, ramps, and nesting boxes.
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6
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The product is ideal for providing a comfortable and safe nesting place for chickens to lay their eggs.
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7
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Ideal for backyard chicken owners looking for a spacious and secure coop with nesting boxes and a run.
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8
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This product is ideal for providing chickens with nesting boxes to lay their eggs on a perch and easily collect them.
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9
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Ideal for raising and housing up to 10 chickens in a backyard environment.
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10
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This product is ideal for providing a secure and comfortable nesting space for up to 10 hens.
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1. Usa-Made Hen House: Overez Classic Coop.
Looking for a spacious and durable chicken coop that can provide a safe and comfortable environment for your feathered friends? Look no further than this Medium Chicken Coop!
Designed to accommodate up to 10 chickens, this coop boasts ample space for your flock to roost, nest, and move around freely. Whether you plan to use it indoors or outdoors, this coop is sure to provide your chickens with the space and security they need to thrive.
Featuring a convenient screen window that can be opened and closed to allow fresh air in, as well as three nesting boxes and two vents to help circulate light and air, this coop is both functional and practical. And with its sturdy construction and premium natural wood materials, you can be sure that it will last for years to come.
Not only is this coop designed to keep your chickens safe and secure, but it also offers a versatile and multipurpose solution for other small animals as well. And thanks to its easy-to-follow instruction manual, you can have it assembled in no time.
So if you're looking for a high-quality and reliable chicken coop that can provide your feathered friends with a safe and comfortable home, look no further than this Medium Chicken Coop!
2. Duncan's Family Farm Store Duncans Poultry 6 Hole Standard Hen Nest
Duncan's Family Farm Store is a trusted, American owned and operated business that produces high-quality equipment, accessories, and tools for poultry, cattle, hogs, and growing on a professional or home level. The company is dedicated to providing customers with the best products available on the market.
The Nesting Boxes from Duncan's Family Farm Store are a must-have for anyone who raises chickens. The boxes are incredibly easy to assemble, thanks to a comprehensive installation guide filled with color pictures. The nesting boxes can be mounted against any wall, including chicken coops and hen houses. Each box is 11.25" deep, 12" wide, 13 " tall, and the unit measures 51" x 36" x 19".
Designed to last for years, these nesting boxes are made from the highest grade metal treated with a galvalume coating that performs better and lasts longer against rain, weather, and water than galvanized coatings. The keyhole hangers make it easy to hang and remove the boxes for occasional cleaning.
In addition to being durable, these nesting boxes are also incredibly easy to clean. The removable nest bottoms make it easy to clean the boxes, ensuring that your chickens have a clean and comfortable place to lay their eggs.
3. Smartnest – Train Your Hens With Fake Eggs
SunGrow Wooden Nest Eggs are an essential addition to any chicken coop. These wooden eggs closely replicate real chicken eggs, measuring approximately 2.75” (7cm) in size, with a light brown color and a hint of red for authenticity. The SunGrow Wooden Nest Eggs come in a pack of 4, perfect for placing inside the nesting box to encourage hens to lay their eggs in a clear, cozy area instead of on the ground or coop floor.
In addition to encouraging good habits, these wooden eggs also discourage bad habits such as pecking and eating eggs. The wooden eggs are placed in the nesting box before the hens have a chance to peck at real eggs. Chickens will peck at the wooden egg and receive no reward, discouraging them from pecking at the actual chicken eggs.
SunGrow Wooden Nest Eggs are also an excellent way to test broodiness in hens. If you are unsure whether your hens are broody or not, simply place a couple of the realistic-looking eggs in the nesting box and wait to see if your hen sets on them. When she starts setting for 3 days or more, it’s time to replace the wooden eggs with fertile eggs to be hatched.
Aside from being an effective and practical addition to your chicken coop, the durable wooden chicken eggs look beautiful when used in DIY home decor. The raw appearance of these sturdy eggs is perfect for festivals like Easter or traditional interior designs, log cabins, farmhouses, and country-themed homes.
4. Roll-N-Lock Poultry Nesting Box
Protect your precious eggs with this roll-away metal nesting box, designed with a unique design that encourages the eggs to roll forward underneath the secure lid where they will remain intact until you are ready to collect them. Built to last, the side and roof are made with galvanized steel, creating a durable and stable structure when assembled. The outside panels also have ventilation holes that ensure proper air circulation.
The trays of the nesting box are made with plastic that won't rust, rot or corrode, making them easy to clean and maintain. These chicken nesting boxes provide a private, safe and sheltered laying area for your hens, giving them plenty of room for comfort. Your chickens will love their new home.
Assembly is quick and easy, with all the nuts and bolts required for assembly included, along with instructional guides on how to put your new chicken nesting box together. Please note that mounting hardware is not included, as this may vary depending on where you plan to mount your new nesting box.
If you are a backyard homesteader or a poultry hobby farmer looking to start or maintain your sustainable, ecological and homegrown farm, these rollout nesting boxes for chickens are a must-have. They are specially designed to cater to the needs of your chickens and provide them with a comfortable and safe environment to lay their eggs.
Each chicken nest box measures 10.5 in. long x 15 in. wide x 20 in. high at its highest point when assembled, while the complete set measures 31.5 in. long x 20.5 in. wide x 20 in. high at its highest point. Invest in this reliable and sturdy nesting box and give your chickens the comfort and safety they deserve.
5. Pawhut 124" Dual Backyard Chicken Coops With Outdoor Ramps And Nesting Boxes
Introducing the Large Outdoor Run, a spacious and sturdy chicken coop that provides ample room for your feathered friends to move around and stretch their wings. This coop is perfect for those who want to raise chickens in their backyard and enjoy fresh eggs every day.
The Large Outdoor Run boasts several features that make it a comfortable and convenient home for your chickens. The coop includes a two-chicken nesting box with a hinged top, making it easy to collect eggs without disturbing your birds. The perches inside the coop allow your chickens to roost comfortably, while the screen windows keep the interior cool and well-ventilated. Ramps provide easy access for your chickens in and out of the coop.
Caring for your chickens has never been easier thanks to the Large Outdoor Run's easy access design. The roof opens up to the inside, making cleaning and maintenance a breeze. Additionally, the coop has four outside doors, providing convenient access to your chickens and their eggs.
Crafted from natural fir and coated with water-resistant paint, the Large Outdoor Run is built to withstand the elements and the test of time. The coop is solidly constructed, ensuring that your chickens are safe and secure.
The Large Outdoor Run has an overall dimension of 123.25" L x 27.5" W x 42.5" H, with a bottom tray size of 21.5" L x 20" W. The two-chicken nesting box measures 21" L x 11.75" W x 14.25" H, while the middle run area is 48" L x 22.75" W x 29.5" H. Assembly is required, but the process is easy and straightforward.
6. Tocretoare Eggprotective Nesting Boxes – Nest With Confidence!
Introducing the Happy Chicken Nesting Boxes by Tocretoare, the ultimate solution for providing your hens with a comfortable and secure space to lay eggs. The nesting boxes are designed with hen holes on the sides, allowing for increased ventilation and breathing capacity for your hens. This feature helps to keep your hens feeling safe and secure, which in turn increases their egg production rate.
The nesting box chassis is designed with a slight tilt, encouraging your eggs to roll forward underneath the secure lid where they will remain intact until you are ready to collect them. For added protection, it is recommended that you place some padding under the lid of the egg collection box to prevent collisions.
Constructed of heavy-duty galvanized steel, our nesting boxes are built to last. Unlike ABS plastic, our galvanized steel material will not rust or wear out over time. The high-pressure water gun can be used to wash the nesting boxes, providing a clean and hygienic laying space for your hens.
Assembly of the nesting boxes is quick and easy with the included screws and nuts and instructions. The simple screw and nut assembly features hanger key-shaped hanging holes for easy hanging and disassembly. The nesting boxes can be mounted at a height of 18-20 inches from the ground and multiple poultry nesting boxes can be connected to each other.
The Tocretoare nesting boxes for chickens are a great size for family use, measuring 35.4 inches long, 17.3 inches wide, and 26.4 inches high. These nesting boxes are a must-have for all poultry hobby farmers looking to start or maintain their sustainable, ecological and homegrown farm. They are also suitable for other poultry such as ducks, geese, and rabbits.
Invest in the Happy Chicken Nesting Boxes by Tocretoare today and provide your hens with a comfortable, secure, and hygienic place to lay their eggs.
7. Omitree 10' Ft Wood Chicken Coop Backyard Hen Run House Chicken 6 Nesting Box & Run
Introducing the spacious and durable chicken coop and run, an ideal home for your feathered friends. Measuring at a robust 124 inches in length, 63 inches in width, and 50 inches in height, this coop and run combination provides ample space for chickens to move around and stretch their wings.
The coop itself measures at approximately 41 inches in length, 63 inches in width, and 50 inches in height (including the nesting box), providing a cozy and comfortable living space for your chickens. The coop's sturdy construction ensures that it can withstand the elements and protect your chickens from predators.
The run is also generously sized, measuring approximately 82 inches in length, 33 inches in width, and 37 inches in height. This spacious run provides plenty of room for your chickens to roam, scratch, and peck at the ground, while still keeping them safely contained.
This coop and run combination is suitable for up to six large chickens or ten bantam chickens, depending on their size and breed. It is a perfect choice for anyone looking to raise a small flock of chickens in their backyard.
Please note that there is no overnight express shipping available for this product. Additionally, there may be extra shipping charges for non-continental US addresses, such as Alaska, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and other territories.
Invest in this high-quality chicken coop and run for your feathered friends and provide them with a safe and spacious home to thrive in.
8. Active Yellow Chicken Roll-Out Nest Pack
The BTYCiTyMao Plastic Chicken Coop is the perfect solution for chicken owners who want a unique design that will keep their hens happy and comfortable. This coop features a ramp design that allows eggs to enter the nesting box automatically, preventing hens from eating them. With a nesting size of approximately 11.81(L)*9.84(W)*17.71(H), this coop provides ample space for your hens to lay eggs comfortably. The triple nesting box also gives you more options to accommodate your flock.
Made of durable, high-impact plastic, this nesting box for chicken coop is corrosion and deformation-resistant, allowing for long-term use. The coop is also easy to clean, making it a low-maintenance option for poultry owners. The flat, wide perch encourages hens to lay eggs in the large nesting boxes, while the heavy-duty roll-out nesting boxes ensure that the eggs remain secure and reliable.
In addition to its practical features, the BTYCiTyMao Plastic Chicken Coop offers high cost performance. This pack of six chicken roosting boxes comes with six fake eggs as a gift, which will encourage your hens to continue laying eggs in their new nesting box. This coop is also a perfect gift for family members on special occasions like Father's Day, Mother's Day, Valentine's Day, weddings, birthdays, Children's Day, and Christmas Day.
9. Omitree Deluxe Large Wood Chicken Coop Backyard Hen House 6-10 Chickens With 6 Nesting Box
Introducing a spacious and durable chicken coop that can comfortably house up to 6 large or 10 bantam chickens, depending on their size and breed. With dimensions of 63 inches in length, 41 inches in width, and 50 inches in height, this coop provides ample space for your feathered friends to move around and exercise.
Please note that overnight express shipping is not available for this item, and there may be extra shipping charges for orders being shipped to non-continental US addresses such as AK, PR, HI, and other similar locations.
Whether you're a seasoned chicken keeper or a beginner, this coop is an excellent choice for creating a safe and comfortable home for your chickens. The sturdy construction and strong materials ensure that the coop will withstand the test of time and keep your chickens protected from the elements and predators.
Investing in a high-quality chicken coop like this one is a smart choice for anyone who wants to keep their chickens healthy and happy. With its spacious design and durable construction, you can rest assured that your feathered friends will have a safe and comfortable home for years to come. So why wait? Order your chicken coop today and start enjoying the benefits of happy and healthy chickens!
10. Roll-Out Hen Nest: 2 Compartments, Heavy-Duty
If you're looking for a sturdy and reliable nesting box for your chickens, look no further than this roll-away metal nesting box. With its unique design, this nesting box encourages your hens to lay their eggs, which then roll forward underneath a secure lid, keeping them safe and intact until you're ready to collect them.
Built to last, this nesting box is made with galvanized steel on the sides and roof, providing a durable and stable structure. Ventilation holes on the outside panels ensure that your chickens stay cool and comfortable while using the nesting box. The trays are made with plastic that won't rust, rot or corrode, making them easy to clean and maintain.
Your chickens will love this nesting box, which provides a private and sheltered laying area that's both safe and comfortable. There's plenty of room for your hens to move around and get comfortable, ensuring that they'll be happy and healthy.
Assembly is quick and easy, with all the nuts and bolts required for assembly included in the package. Instructional guides are also included to help you put your new nesting box together. Note that mounting hardware is not included, as this may vary depending on where you plan to mount your new nesting box.
Whether you're a seasoned backyard homesteader or just starting out, these rollout nesting boxes for chickens are a must-have for anyone looking to start or maintain their sustainable, ecological and homegrown farm. So why wait? Invest in a quality nesting box today and give your chickens the safe and comfortable laying area they deserve.
Best Chickens To Lay Eggs FAQs
How do I ensure my chickens are healthy and happy while laying eggs?
As a responsible chicken owner, it is essential to take care of your chickens' health and happiness to ensure they lay nutritious eggs. Here are some tips to ensure your chickens are healthy and happy while laying eggs:
1. Provide a Clean and Comfortable Coop: Your chicken coop should be dry, clean, and well-ventilated to prevent diseases. Also, make sure to provide enough space for each chicken to move around comfortably.
2. Proper Nutrition: Chickens require a balanced diet to stay healthy. Ensure they have access to clean water and feed them a mix of grains, proteins, and vitamins.
3. Regular Health Check-ups: Regularly check your chickens' health to identify any signs of illness early. You can do this by observing their behavior, checking their eyes, feathers, and skin.
4. Exercise: Chickens love to scratch, peck, and take dust baths, so ensure they have access to an outdoor area to do so.
5. Social Interaction: Chickens are social animals and thrive in the company of others. Ensure they have a companion and interact with them frequently.
By following these tips, you can ensure your chickens are healthy, happy, and productive layers of nutritious eggs.
How long do the best egg-laying chickens continue to produce eggs?
The length of time that egg-laying chickens continue to produce eggs depends on various factors such as breed, health, and living conditions. On average, most hens will produce eggs consistently for about 2-3 years before their egg-laying rate slows down. After this point, they may still lay eggs, but at a much slower rate. Some breeds, like Leghorns and Rhode Island Reds, are known for their excellent egg-laying abilities and may continue to lay eggs for up to 5 years or more. However, as chickens age, their eggshells may become thinner and more fragile, and the eggs may be smaller. It's also important to note that egg production can be affected by factors such as stress, changes in diet, and seasonal changes in daylight hours. By providing your chickens with a healthy diet, comfortable living conditions, and regular veterinary care, you can help ensure that they continue to produce eggs for as long as possible.
Should I consider raising hybrid chickens for egg-laying purposes?
If you are looking for an efficient and productive way to get eggs, raising hybrid chickens can be a great option to consider. Hybrid chickens are bred to be highly productive layers of eggs and are often preferred over purebred chickens. Hybrid chickens typically lay more eggs per year, are less prone to disease and tend to be heartier than purebred chickens.
When selecting hybrid chickens, you can choose from a variety of breeds such as the Black Star, Golden Comet, or Red Sex Link. These breeds are known to lay large brown eggs and have a docile temperament. They also tend to be easy to care for and require minimal special attention.
However, it's important to note that hybrid chickens do not typically live as long as purebred chickens and may have a shorter lifespan overall. Additionally, they are not ideal for meat production as they tend to be smaller in size compared to meat-specific breeds.
Overall, if you're looking to raise chickens for egg-laying purposes, hybrid chickens can be a great choice, offering high productivity, easy care and a docile temperament. Just be sure to do your research and choose a breed that best fits your needs and goals.
What are some common problems to watch out for when raising chickens for egg production?
Raising chickens for egg production can be a rewarding experience, but it's important to be aware of the common problems that can arise. One common issue is disease, which can be spread through contaminated feed or water. To prevent this, it's important to keep the coop clean and provide your chickens with fresh, clean water and feed. Another problem to watch out for is predators, such as foxes, raccoons, and hawks. To prevent attacks, make sure your coop is secure and consider using motion-activated lights or other deterrents. Egg production can also be affected by stress, which can be caused by overcrowding or changes in the environment. Make sure your chickens have enough space and minimize changes to their routine as much as possible. Finally, it's important to monitor your chickens for signs of illness or injury and seek veterinary care as needed. By being aware of these common problems and taking steps to prevent them, you can help ensure a healthy and productive flock.
What are the top breeds of chickens for egg-laying?
When it comes to selecting chickens for egg-laying, there are several breeds that stand out for their productivity. One of the most popular breeds for egg-laying is the Rhode Island Red. This breed is known for its hardiness, adaptability, and consistent egg production, with hens laying up to 300 brown eggs per year. Another popular breed is the Leghorn, which is known for its high energy and excellent feed-to-egg conversion ratio. Leghorns can lay up to 280 white eggs per year, making them a great choice for commercial egg production. The Plymouth Rock is another reliable breed for egg-laying, with hens laying up to 280 brown eggs per year. Other breeds to consider include the Sussex, Australorp, and Orpington, all of which are known for their egg-laying abilities and gentle dispositions. Ultimately, the best breed for egg-laying will depend on your specific needs and preferences, including factors such as climate, space, and desired egg color.
What factors should I consider when selecting chickens for egg production?
When selecting chickens for egg production, there are several factors that you should consider. First and foremost, you should consider the breed of the chicken. There are some breeds that are known for their superior egg-laying abilities, such as Leghorns, Rhode Island Reds, and Sussexes. Additionally, you should think about the age of the chicken, as younger hens are typically more productive than older ones. You should also consider the environment in which the chickens will be living, as they require a comfortable and stress-free environment to produce eggs consistently. Other factors to consider include the size of the chicken, their feed requirements, and their disposition.
It is important to note that while selecting the right breed of chicken is important, it is not the only factor that will impact egg production. Proper nutrition, access to clean water, and a healthy living environment are all crucial for ensuring that your chickens produce high-quality eggs on a consistent basis. By taking the time to carefully consider all of these factors, you can select chickens that will provide you with a reliable source of fresh eggs for years to come.
What is the average egg size of the best egg-laying chickens?
The average egg size of the best egg-laying chickens varies depending on the breed and age of the chicken. Generally, the most common breeds used for egg production are Leghorns, Rhode Island Reds, and Sussex, which usually lay large-sized eggs. However, the size of the eggs also depends on the age of the chicken. Younger chickens tend to lay smaller eggs, while older chickens lay larger ones.
The industry standard for egg size is determined by weight, with large eggs weighing between 2 and 2.25 ounces. However, there is no specific average egg size for all egg-laying chickens as it varies depending on the conditions of the farm, including the feed, environment, and genetics of the chickens. It is important to note that egg size does not necessarily indicate the quality of the egg, as the nutritional value and taste of the egg are not related to its size.
What is the ideal coop setup for chickens that are bred for laying eggs?
The ideal coop setup for chickens bred for laying eggs involves several important factors. Firstly, the coop should be spacious enough to accommodate the number of chickens you have. Generally, each chicken requires around 2-3 square feet of space inside the coop. The coop should also be well-ventilated to ensure proper airflow and prevent the buildup of ammonia from the chicken's droppings.
Next, it's important to provide nesting boxes for the hens to lay their eggs. One nesting box is typically required for every 4-5 hens, and they should be filled with clean bedding material such as straw or wood shavings.
In addition, the coop should have roosting bars for the chickens to perch on at night. These should be placed at a height of around 2-3 feet off the ground and spaced at least 10 inches apart.
Lastly, the coop should have a secure door and windows to protect the chickens from predators, and a fenced area for them to roam outside during the day. Providing a high-quality layer feed and access to clean water is also essential for ensuring healthy egg production.
What is the temperament of the most productive egg-laying chickens?
The temperament of the most productive egg-laying chickens can vary depending on the breed. However, in general, productive egg-laying chickens tend to be quite active and curious. They are also relatively calm and tolerant of handling, which is important for farmers who need to collect eggs daily. Chickens that are easily stressed or aggressive may produce fewer eggs or stop laying altogether. Additionally, chickens that are friendly and social tend to be healthier and happier, which can also contribute to their productivity. It is important for farmers to select breeds known for their egg-laying abilities and to provide them with proper nutrition, housing, and care to ensure they reach their full potential. Overall, a productive egg-laying chicken should have a balanced temperament that allows them to thrive in their environment.
Which breeds are known for producing the most eggs per year?
There are several breeds of chickens that are known for their high egg production. The top three breeds are Leghorns, Rhode Island Reds and Plymouth Rocks. Leghorns are one of the best egg-laying breeds and can produce up to 320 eggs per year. They are lightweight and consume less feed than other breeds, making them an economical choice for egg production. Rhode Island Reds are a popular breed known for their hardiness and ability to lay around 250-300 eggs per year. They are also good meat birds and are often used in dual-purpose operations. Plymouth Rocks are another popular breed and can lay up to 280 eggs per year. They are known for their docile temperament and cold-hardiness, making them an excellent choice for backyard flocks. Other breeds that are known for their egg production include Australorps, Sussex, and Orpingtons. It's important to note that genetics, nutrition, and environment also play a role in egg production, so proper care and management are essential for maximizing egg production in any breed.
