When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

Best Laying Hens For Eggs (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a cost-effective and sustainable way to get fresh eggs, raising laying hens may be the perfect solution for you. Not only do you get organic and homegrown eggs, but you also have the pleasure of tending to your own flock. However, before diving into this pursuit, there are a few factors to consider.

Firstly, it's important to determine the appropriate space for your hens. They'll need a warm and secure coop and enough outdoor space to roam around and stretch their wings. You might also want to consider the type of breed you choose as different breeds lay different numbers of eggs but have different temperaments and space requirements.

Other factors to consider include food, water, and healthcare for your hens. Make sure to have a proper feeding schedule and always provide clean and fresh water. You should also have a basic knowledge of chicken healthcare or a trusted veterinarian to ensure your hens stay healthy.

If you're ready to take on this rewarding hobby, here are some questions to ask yourself. What type of laying hens are the best fit for my space and lifestyle? How many eggs do I need? What do I need to know about taking care of my hens? Answering these questions will help you make an informed decision on raising laying hens for eggs.

10 Best Laying Hens For Eggs

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for poultry farmers who need a rust-proofed, wall-mounted nesting box with eight compartments for egg-laying hens.
2
This product is ideal for poultry owners who want large, rust-proof nesting boxes with easy egg collection capabilities.
3
It is an ideal food treat for pets such as chickens, birds, amphibians, and reptiles due to its high protein and calcium content.
4
This product is ideal for providing a comfortable and secure nesting space for chickens, hens, and ducks to lay their eggs.
5
This product is ideal for providing a rust-proofed nesting solution with large vented holes and rollout egg collection for poultry.
6
The product is ideal for providing comfortable nesting options for chickens.
7
The product is ideal for providing a comfortable and durable nesting and roosting space for chickens.
8
This product is ideal for poultry owners looking for durable and well-ventilated nesting boxes that can accommodate various types of birds.
9
The product is ideal for providing chickens with a comfortable and efficient laying space.
10
This product is ideal for providing a high-calcium protein treat for chickens, birds, amphibians, and reptiles.
This product is ideal for poultry farmers who need a rust-proofed, wall-mounted nesting box with eight compartments for egg-laying hens.
This product is ideal for poultry owners who want large, rust-proof nesting boxes with easy egg collection capabilities.
It is an ideal food treat for pets such as chickens, birds, amphibians, and reptiles due to its high protein and calcium content.
This product is ideal for providing a comfortable and secure nesting space for chickens, hens, and ducks to lay their eggs.
This product is ideal for providing a rust-proofed nesting solution with large vented holes and rollout egg collection for poultry.
The product is ideal for providing comfortable nesting options for chickens.
The product is ideal for providing a comfortable and durable nesting and roosting space for chickens.
This product is ideal for poultry owners looking for durable and well-ventilated nesting boxes that can accommodate various types of birds.
The product is ideal for providing chickens with a comfortable and efficient laying space.
This product is ideal for providing a high-calcium protein treat for chickens, birds, amphibians, and reptiles.

1. Livosa 8-Compartment Chicken Roll Box

If you're looking for an easy and convenient way to collect eggs from your chickens, this roll-out nesting box is the perfect solution. With its unique design, the eggs roll forward into the front compartment where they are protected until you're ready to collect them. The sloping roof design prevents hens from perching on top of the box, while numerous vents in the bulkhead provide fresh airflow. Additionally, the four bottom feet can increase the height of the chicken egg box to avoid dampness.

This laying hen box has eight holes to suit your needs. The smooth edges have been passivated to protect you and your chickens from harm. Made of rust-proof galvanized and painted steel, this chicken coop is durable and easy to clean. The smooth surface ensures the comfort of your chickens.

Assembly is easy and hassle-free. The package comes with screws, bolts, and a pair of gloves for easy installation. All you need is a flat-blade screwdriver and an adjustable wrench, follow the installation steps, and you'll have a complete chicken coop in no time.

Pros

  • Easy and convenient way to collect eggs
  • Unique design to protect eggs until ready to collect
  • Sloping roof design prevents hens from perching on top of the box
  • Numerous vents in bulkhead provide fresh airflow
  • Four bottom feet can increase height of box to avoid dampness
  • Eight holes to suit your needs
  • Smooth edges with passivation to protect you and your chickens from harm
  • Made of rust-proof galvanized and painted steel, durable and easy to clean
  • Smooth surface ensures comfort of chickens
  • Easy and hassle-free assembly with included screws, bolts, and gloves

2. Rust-Proof Nesting Boxes For Poultry.

The automatic egg collection feature of these nesting boxes ensures that your eggs are safely moved to the covered tray after laying, preventing them from getting stepped on, pecked, or getting dirty or broken. The trays come with translucent lids, so you can easily identify the number of eggs and their location. These nesting boxes are made of high-grade metal treated with a galvalume coating, which ensures that they last longer and perform better against rain, weather, and water than galvanized coatings.

With a depth of 11.25", width of 12", and height of 13", these nesting boxes come with keyhole hangers, making it easy to hang and remove them for cleaning. The unit measures 51" x 36" x 19" and can be mounted against any wall, including chicken coops and hen houses. You'll have everything you need to assemble these nesting boxes quickly and easily, thanks to the clear installation guide with color pictures.

Duncan's Family Farm Store takes pride in being an American owned and operated business, producing many of their products in the USA. They offer equipment, accessories, and tools for poultry, cattle, hogs, and growing on a professional or home level. When you purchase from Duncan's, you can be assured that you're getting the best. Detailed photo instructions are included to guide you through the assembly process.

Pros

  • Automatic egg collection system prevents eggs from getting dirty, stepped on, or broken
  • Translucent lids allow easy identification of eggs
  • High-grade metal with galvalume coating ensures durability and longevity against weather
  • Easy to assemble with clear installation guide and included photo instructions
  • Can be mounted against any wall

Cons

  • – None

3. Protein-Packed Zower Treats For Happy Pets

The 100% safe and natural Zower Grubsnack larvae is a wholesome food source for chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, sugar gliders, hedgehogs, reptiles, and other small animals. It is non-GMO, has no preservatives, additives, and is dust-free. The larvae are rich in essential nutrients such as 43-50% protein, 29-32% healthy fat, 3-5% calcium, phosphorus, fiber, and lysine.

The high protein intake of dried larvae boosts the immune system and egg production of birds. It is an affordable food source that helps molting birds regain energy and resume laying eggs. The larvae promote stronger eggshells, prevent egg blinding or egg deformation due to their rich calcium content. It is an excellent investment for pet owners.

Dried larvae are an excellent treat for attracting wild birds such as bluebirds, wrens, robins, chickadees, woodpeckers, cardinals, tufted titmouse, mockingbirds, and more. The product has received tons of positive Amazon feedback for attracting beautiful birds to visit your backyard frequently.

The solid container box with a firm resealable bag keeps the dried larvae intact. The resealable zip bags help maintain the crispness and flavor of the larvae. It won't spoil, so there's no need for refrigeration. It is easy to handle; simply scatter onto the ground, and your flock will go crazy for these BSFL.

Zower Grubsnack larvae are environmentally friendly and sustainable for the planet. They are raised with food waste, and their excrement becomes organic fertilizer for plants.

Pros

  • 100% safe and natural
  • Wholesome food source for various animals
  • Rich in essential nutrients
  • Boosts immune system and egg production of birds
  • Promotes stronger eggshells
  • Attracts beautiful birds
  • Solid container box with firm resealable bag
  • Easy to handle
  • Environmentally friendly and sustainable

4. Livosa Rust-Proofed Metal Nesting Box For Poultry

For poultry enthusiasts who are looking to start or maintain their own sustainable and homegrown farm, the Chicken Nest Boxes from GET EGGS are an absolute must-have. With its outstanding design and features, it is a perfect addition to any farm.

One of the outstanding features of this chicken coop is its sloping roof design that prevents hens from perching on top of the nesting box. There are numerous vents in the bulkhead that allow fresh airflow to circulate, ensuring that your hens are comfortable and healthy. Additionally, the four bottom feet of the box can increase its height, preventing dampness and ensuring that it stays dry.

The laying hen boxes come with six holes to accommodate your needs. The edges of the box are passivated, ensuring that the smooth edges protect you and your chickens from harm. The chicken coop is made of rust-proof hot-dip galvanized steel, ensuring that it is durable and easy to clean. The smooth surface ensures the comfort and safety of your chickens.

Installation is made easy with the screws, bolts, and gloves that come in the package. All you need is a flat-blade screwdriver and an adjustable wrench, follow the installation steps, and you'll have a complete chicken coop in no time.

Pros

  • Sloping roof design prevents hens from perching on top of the nesting box
  • Numerous vents in the bulkhead provide fresh airflow
  • Four bottom feet can increase the height of the chicken egg box to avoid dampness
  • Passivated edges ensure smooth edges for safety

Cons

  • – None reported

5. Nestpro Metal Poultry Box For Egg Laying

The Automatic Egg Collection Rollout Nesting Boxes make egg collecting easy and hassle-free. The rollout surface moves the eggs to the covered area after they are laid, preventing stepping or pecking and keeping the eggs clean and intact. Each tray comes with a translucent lid, allowing you to see the number of eggs and their location immediately.

Built to last, these nesting boxes are made of high-grade metal treated with a galvalume coating that performs better and lasts longer than galvanized coatings. The keyhole hangers make it easy to hang and remove the boxes for occasional cleaning. Each box measures 11.25" deep, 12" wide, and 13" tall, and the unit measures 51" x 36" x 19".

These Rollaway Nesting Boxes are incredibly easy to assemble with a clear installation guide complete with color pictures. You can mount them against any wall, including chicken coops and hen houses. With years of service in mind, these nesting boxes are designed to serve you and your poultry for years to come.

Duncan's Family Farm Store is an American-owned and operated business that produces many products in the USA. They provide high-quality equipment, accessories, and tools for poultry, cattle, hogs, and growing on a professional or home level. When you get it from Duncan's, you're getting the best.

Pros

  • Automatic egg collection prevents stepping, pecking, and keeps eggs clean and intact.
  • Translucent lids allow you to see the number of eggs and their location immediately.
  • Made of high-grade metal treated with a galvalume coating, ensuring durability and long-lasting performance.
  • Easy to assemble and mount against any wall, including chicken coops and hen houses.
  • Produced by an American-owned and operated business that provides high-quality equipment, accessories, and tools for poultry, cattle, hogs, and growing on a professional or home level.

6. Cackle Hatchery Laying Hen Nest Box Pads (12 Pack)

The Nesting Substrate for Hens and Eggs is a top-quality product designed to provide comfort and padding for laying hens in their nest boxes. Made from Great Lakes Aspen Excelsior Fibers, the substrate comes in a pack of 12 and is manufactured in the USA.

The substrate is highly absorbent and helps reduce egg breakage by drawing moisture down from the hens and freshly laid eggs. It also keeps the eggs clean, making gathering them easier than most other nesting substrates available in the market.

Apart from being used in nest boxes, the substrate is also ideal for chick brooder homes, providing chicks with stable footing for their initial growth stages. The substrate is soft and gentle on the feet, ensuring the chicks remain comfortable and healthy.

Overall, the Nesting Substrate for Hens and Eggs is an excellent product that is durable, reliable, and easy to use. It is a must-have for farmers and poultry keepers who care about the welfare of their hens and chicks.

Pros

  • Highly absorbent substrate that draws moisture down from hens and freshly laid eggs
  • Helps reduce egg breakage and keeps eggs clean
  • Easy to gather eggs due to its unique design
  • Ideal for chick brooder homes to provide stable footing for chicks
  • Made from Great Lakes Aspen Excelsior Fibers
  • Manufactured in the USA

7. Usa-Made Rust-Resistant Chicken Nest Box

The Heavy Duty Chicken Nesting Boxes are the perfect addition to any chicken coop. Made with all galvanized steel, these boxes are built to last. The high front and back panels ensure that your chickens stay safe and secure while laying their eggs. The removable and easy to clean bottom insert makes cleaning up after your chickens a breeze. With 1 solid wood roosting bar included, your chickens will have a comfortable place to rest when they're not laying eggs.

These nesting boxes are designed with durability in mind. The galvanized steel construction ensures that they can withstand the wear and tear of daily use. The high front and back panels provide added protection for your chickens, while the removable bottom insert makes it easy to keep the boxes clean. The included roosting bar is a nice touch, providing your chickens with a comfortable place to rest.

Overall, the Heavy Duty Chicken Nesting Boxes are a great investment for any chicken owner. They are built to last and provide a safe and comfortable place for your chickens to lay their eggs.

Pros

  • All galvanized steel construction for durability
  • High front and back panels for added protection
  • Removable and easy to clean bottom insert
  • Solid wood roosting bar included

8. Rollout Poultry Nest Box – Rust Proofed Metal

The Automatic Egg Collection Rollaway Nesting Boxes are a must-have for every poultry farm. The rollout surface of these nesting boxes is designed to move your eggs to the covered area immediately after laying, protecting them from being stepped on or pecked by other chickens. The translucent lid on each tray allows you to see how many eggs are in the nesting box at a glance, making it easier to keep track of your egg production.

These nesting boxes are made to last for years, with 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 for occasional cleaning, ensuring that your nesting boxes remain clean and hygienic for your chickens.

Assembly of the Rollaway Nesting Boxes is incredibly easy with a clear installation guide complete with color pictures. You can easily mount these nesting boxes against any wall, including chicken coops and hen houses. These nesting boxes are a great investment for any poultry farm, providing a safe and convenient way to collect eggs.

Duncan's Family Farm Store is an American-owned and operated business that provides equipment, accessories, and tools for poultry, cattle, hogs, and growing on a professional or home level. When you purchase from Duncan's, you can be assured that you are getting the best quality products available.

Pros

  • Rollout surface moves eggs to the covered area immediately after laying, protecting them from being stepped on or pecked
  • Translucent lid on each tray allows you to see how many eggs are in the nesting box at a glance
  • Highest grade metal treated with a galvalume coating that performs better and lasts longer against rain, weather, and water
  • Easy to assemble with a clear installation guide complete with color pictures
  • Easy to mount against any wall, including chicken coops and hen houses
  • Made to last for years

9. Rural365 Roll-Away Chicken Nest Box.

The Rural365 Curtained Roll Out Chicken Nest Box is an excellent addition to any chicken coop. This nesting box provides a comfortable, dark, and sheltered area for poultry to lay eggs and prevents egg eating. It is also designed to allow for automatic egg collection, as the nest pad can be set at three different angles to slope downward towards the egg drop collecting tray on the front side of the box. This feature prevents hens from destroying or dirtying eggs and allows for easy egg collection.

The hen nesting box has a perfect size of 19 x 12 x 17 inches (48.3 x 30.5 x 43.2 cm) and is suitable for one box per five hens (used one at a time). The nesting box comes with a hinged lid that slopes to prevent roosting on top of the box. The curtain measures 11.9 x 9.4 inches (30.2 x 23.9 cm), while the hinged egg collection tray measures 11.9 x 6.7 x 2.6 inches (30.2 x 17 x 6.6 cm) and can store up to 15 large eggs.

This chicken nesting box is built to last, with zinc-plated galvanized metal construction for maximum strength and longevity. It also includes ABS plastic parts that are UV resistant to ensure durability. The polyethylene plastic nest pad includes vertical fingers to guide the eggs to the tray and ensure minimum contact with manure and debris. Additionally, the nesting pad is removable and easy to clean.

Setting up the Rural365 Curtained Roll Out Chicken Nest Box is a breeze. The package includes all necessary hardware and instructions for easy assembly. The backside of the chicken coop nesting box has two slotted screw holes for optionally mounting 1.5 to 3 feet (0.5-1 m) above the ground inside the chicken coop near the waterer and feeder. Multiple poultry nesting boxes with lids can be attached to each other with the supplied set of spacers (package includes only one hen laying box).

Pros

  • Prevents egg eating and offers a comfortable, dark, and sheltered area for poultry to lay eggs
  • Allows for automatic egg collection and prevents hens from destroying or dirtying eggs
  • Built to last with zinc-plated galvanized metal construction and UV resistant ABS plastic parts
  • Easy to clean with a removable polyethylene plastic nest pad
  • Easy to set up with all necessary hardware and instructions included
  • Can be attached to multiple poultry nesting boxes with lids with the supplied set of spacers

Cons

  • – Only includes one hen laying box per package

10. Calcium-Rich Insect Treats For Chickens & Reptiles

Introducing the 100% safe, natural, and wholesome BSF Larvae from Zower Grubsnack. This product is non-GMO, preservative-free, additive-free, and dust-free. It is super rich in essential nutrients such as 43-50% protein, 29-32% healthy fat, 3-5% calcium, phosphorus, fiber, and lysine. It is an affordable food source for chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, sugar gliders, hedgehogs, and reptiles, along with other small animals. The larvae help boost the immune system and egg production with high protein intake. It promotes healthier feathers and helps molting birds regain energy and resume laying eggs. It also promotes strong eggshells, prevents egg blinding or egg deformation with rich calcium, making it a smart investment.

Zower Grubsnack larvae are also an excellent treat for attracting wild birds. Tons of Amazon feedback shows that bluebirds, wrens, robins, chickadees, woodpeckers, cardinals, tufted titmouse, mockingbirds, and other beautiful birds love dried larvae. Attract these beautiful birds to your backyard and make your neighbors jealous.

The solid container box with a firm resealable bag keeps the dried larvae intact. The resealable zip bags help maintain the crispness and flavor of the larvae, and there is no need for refrigeration. It is easy to handle, and you can simply scatter it onto the ground. Your flock will go crazy for our BSFL!

Zower Grubsnack larvae are environmentally friendly and sustainable for the planet. The larvae are raised with food waste, and the excrement becomes organic fertilizer for plants. With this product, you are not only providing your animals with a nutritious treat, but you are also contributing to the planet's sustainability.

Pros

  • Non-GMO, preservative-free, additive-free, and dust-free
  • Super rich in essential nutrients such as protein, healthy fat, calcium, phosphorus, fiber, and lysine
  • Boosts immune system and egg production
  • Promotes healthier feathers and helps molting birds regain energy and resume laying eggs
  • Promotes strong eggshells and prevents egg blinding or egg deformation with rich calcium
  • An affordable food source for various animals
  • An excellent treat for attracting wild birds
  • Solid container box with a firm resealable bag keeps the dried larvae intact
  • Resealable zip bags help maintain the crispness and flavor of the larvae
  • Easy to handle and no need for refrigeration
  • Environmentally friendly and sustainable for the planet

Best Laying Hens For Eggs FAQs

How many hours of daylight do laying hens need to produce eggs?

Laying hens require a minimum of 14 hours of daylight to produce eggs. This is because the hormone responsible for egg-laying, called follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), is produced when there is enough light in the environment. FSH stimulates the development of follicles in the hen's ovaries which eventually lead to the formation of eggs. However, too much light can also be detrimental to egg production as it can cause stress to the hens, leading to a decrease in egg-laying. Therefore, it is important to maintain a consistent and appropriate amount of light in the hen's environment to ensure optimal egg production. This can be achieved through the use of artificial lighting systems or by providing access to natural sunlight. Overall, providing the right amount of light is crucial for the health and productivity of laying hens.

How often should I collect eggs from my laying hens?

As a poultry farmer or backyard chicken keeper, it is important to know how often you should collect eggs from your laying hens. Collecting eggs regularly is vital to ensure the health and safety of your chickens and to maximize egg production. Generally, it is recommended to collect eggs at least once a day, preferably in the morning. This helps to prevent eggs from being trampled or cracked by the hens, which can lead to bacterial contamination and reduced egg quality.

When collecting eggs, it is important to handle them carefully to avoid damage or cracking. You should also clean and disinfect the nesting boxes regularly to prevent the spread of disease and parasites among your flock. Additionally, it is recommended to store eggs in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness and prolong their shelf life.

In conclusion, collecting eggs from your laying hens once a day is essential for their welfare and to ensure high-quality eggs. With proper care and management, your chickens will continue to lay healthy and delicious eggs for years to come.

What breeds of chickens are best for laying eggs?

When it comes to selecting the best breeds of chickens for egg-laying, there are a few factors to consider. Generally, the best egg-laying breeds are those that are prolific layers, meaning that they lay a lot of eggs throughout the year. Additionally, they should be relatively low-maintenance and adaptable to a range of environments.

One of the most popular egg-laying breeds is the Rhode Island Red. This breed is known for its hardiness and adaptability, and it can lay up to 300 brown eggs per year. Another good option is the Leghorn, which is a smaller breed that can lay up to 280 white eggs per year. Other popular breeds for egg-laying include the Plymouth Rock, the Sussex, and the Australorp.

Ultimately, the best breed of chicken for egg-laying will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you are a backyard hobbyist or a commercial egg producer, there is likely a breed that will meet your needs and provide you with plenty of delicious, fresh eggs.

What is the best type of housing for laying hens to maximize egg production?

The best type of housing for laying hens will depend on various factors, including the climate, breed of the hens, and space available. However, there are some general guidelines that can help maximize egg production.

Firstly, hens need a comfortable and clean environment to lay eggs. This means providing them with a well-ventilated coop that has adequate lighting, insulation, and bedding material. Hens also need enough space to move around and exercise, so a minimum of 1-2 square feet per bird is recommended.

Secondly, hens require a balanced diet to lay eggs regularly. This includes a mix of grains, proteins, and minerals. Feeding them a commercial layer feed or a homemade feed that meets their nutritional requirements is ideal.

Lastly, hens need access to fresh water at all times. Providing them with a constant supply of clean water can help them stay hydrated and healthy, which in turn can boost egg production.

In summary, the best type of housing for laying hens should provide a comfortable and clean environment, adequate space, a balanced diet, and access to fresh water. Following these guidelines can help maximize egg production and keep your hens healthy and happy.

What is the ideal temperature range for laying hens to produce eggs?

The ideal temperature range for laying hens to produce eggs is between 55°F to 75°F (12°C to 24°C). Temperature is an essential factor that affects the egg-laying capacity of hens, and it is essential to maintain the optimal temperature range for the hens to lay eggs consistently. If the temperature is too high or too low, it can affect the egg production and quality of eggs. In extreme temperatures, hens may stop laying eggs altogether, leading to a significant loss for poultry farmers. Hence, it is crucial to maintain a comfortable temperature range for the hens to ensure they remain healthy and lay eggs consistently. Farmers can use various methods such as ventilation, heating, and cooling systems to regulate the temperature and ensure that the hens remain comfortable and healthy.

Leave a Comment