Understanding laying hens is important if you want consistent, high-quality eggs. These resources will help you understand and manage your laying hens.

NC State Extension resources

This article from N.C. Cooperative Extension covers all aspects of starting and managing a backyard or garden flock of chickens in North Carolina.

NC State Extension Factsheets

• Explaining the North Carolina Egg Law for Producers With Small Flocks
• How to Sell Shell Eggs Into Grocery Stores Through Direct Store Delivery
• Identifying and Responding to Factors That Can Affect Egg Quality and Appearance

Other resources

This article from University of Florida IFAS Extension describes different things that can impact the quality of eggshells.

This resource can be viewed online or downloaded for free.

Culling Hens

This article from Mississippi State University Extension explains when you might need to remove a hen from your flock. The article explains how to cull and alternatives for the culled hen(s).

This resource can be viewed online or downloaded for free.

Factors Affecting Egg Production in Backyard Chicken Flocks
Publication #PS-35

This article from University of Florida IFAS Extension describes the possible reasons for production issues. Information is also gathered in a quick reference table.

This resource can be viewed online or downloaded for free.

Factors Causing Poor Pigmentation of Brown-Shelled Eggs
Publication #VM94

This article from University of Florida IFAS Extension describes how eggs get their color and addresses possible reasons for poor color.

This resource can be viewed online or downloaded for free.

Light for Backyard Flocks
Bulletin #2227

This article from the University of Maine Cooperative Extension gives advice on lighting for your chickens. There is a section for laying hens.

This resource can be viewed online or downloaded for free.

Management of Egg Producing Hens

This article from Mississippi State University Extension provides a short overview of managing laying hens.

This resource can be viewed online or downloaded for free.

Management Requirements for Laying Flocks
2902-1085

This article from Virginia Cooperative Extension provides a short overview of managing laying hens.

This resource can be viewed online or downloaded for free.

Producing Your Own Eggs

This article from University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension lists the topics to consider before starting to raise laying hens. The article includes management information.

This resource can be viewed online.

If you have questions about laying hens, contact an Area Specialized Agent for poultry, Ken Anderson, or your county's livestock agent.