Chickens are known for their quirky eating habits and foraging for interesting snacks right in your backyard. If you’re new to raising backyard chickens you might be wondering what’s safe for our feathered friends and what things might be harmful to them. I remember starting out thinking that the sharp eggshells would slice their throats or something. I was wrong!
Can Chickens Eat Eggshells?
Yes! Chickens actually enjoy eating eggshells and they are an incredible source of calcium for them to produce more strong eggs. Of course there are always naysayers out there they don’t encourage this, but I’ve been doing it for years and have had incredible success with my laying hens.
Why Feed Eggshells to Chickens?
One of the primary reasons to feed eggshells to chickens is their high calcium content. Calcium is essential for hens, especially for those that are actively laying eggs. Each egg requires a significant amount of calcium for the shell's formation. Therefore, providing your hens with a calcium source is crucial for their health and egg production! Feeding eggshells helps ensure that your hens produce strong, intact eggs.
Weak or thin-shelled eggs are more prone to breakage, which can lead to a messy coop and a decrease in egg production. In some cases the egg can break inside the chicken and then you have bigger problems.
A diet rich in calcium contributes to healthier eggs. For my flock, I also use Chicken E-lixir which is an excellent source of calcium, and Golden Graze as a fun treat for them! Golden Graze contains oyster shells for that added calcium boost.
Reducing Egg Waste
One of the reasons I love feeding my chickens their eggshells is because I feel like I’m not wasting any part of the egg! Chickens are smart and will feed on eggshells as they need calcium. However, there are some things to keep in mind before you throw the eggshells back out to them.
How to Clean and Prepare Eggshells for Chickens
Before offering eggshells to your flock, it’s crucial to clean them properly. Rinse the shells to remove any residual egg whites or yolk, which can attract pests and bacteria.
1. Bake the Eggshells (Optional)
To further reduce the risk of bacteria, some backyard keepers choose to bake the eggshells at a low temperature (around 200°F or 93°C) for about 10 minutes. This step not only sterilizes the shells but also makes them easier to crush. I used to do this but don’t usually take the time to anymore. I’ve relaxed a bit as a chicken mama. Haha!
2. Crush the Eggshells
Crushing the eggshells into smaller pieces aids digestion and makes the calcium more accessible to the chickens. I put them in a Ziploc bag or between two pieces of waxed paper and then use a rolling pin to crush them good. Some people will use a food processor, but I like quick and easy. The smaller the pieces, the easier it will be for the hens to consume them, ensuring they get the maximum benefit.
3. Feed Separately
It’s best to offer crushed eggshells separately from the regular feed. You can place the shells in a small dish or container within the coop, allowing hens to eat them as needed. Chickens will naturally regulate their calcium intake, so providing the shells as a free choice option is an effective strategy. I use this same strategy with oyster shells. My girls always have a bowl of oyster shells available to them if they need extra calcium!
Myths About Feeding Eggshells to Chickens
One of the most common misconceptions is that feeding chickens their own eggshells will lead to them pecking at and eating their own eggs. This isn’t true. However, chickens can and will become egg eaters if they get bored, stressed or lack protein. It’s so important to make sure they have high quality food maintain their health and nutrition.
Feeding eggshells to your chickens is a simple yet effective way to ensure they receive the calcium needed for strong egg production. And it’s less waste in your kitchen. It’s a win-win for everyone! Your chickens will thank you with plenty of delicious and nutritious eggs!
Until next time,
–The Wing Lady
Chicken E-lixir - Daily Vitamin for Chickens Chicken E-lixir is added to drinking water as a daily vitamin for keeping chickens healthy by promoting digestive health. For everyday use, it contains a unique blend of organic oregano essential oil, prebiotics, calcium, vitamins D & E and electrolytes.
Golden Graze - For Quality Eggs & Golden Yolks Golden Graze is a daily chicken snack that promotes quality eggs with golden yolks and Omega-3 fatty acids. It contains oregano essential oils, multi-grains, cracked corn, oyster shells, marigold petals and flaxseed. Treat your hens to this healthy snack and enjoy eggsellent eggs.