Managing Chickens From Chicks to Peak Egg Production Joseph Okoh, USU Extension Small Acreage Livestock Specialist Essence Perry, Intern, Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences
Introduction Chickens were first domesticated for cultural purposes, but selective breeding has focused on egg production (Rose, 1996). Choosing the right breeds and good management practices are essential for farmers to maximize egg yield, quality, and safety. This fact sheet covers poultry history, top egg-laying breeds, egg anatomy, nutrition, and practical tips to help farmers improve productivity and run successful egg production ventures.
Understanding Poultry Domestication and Breeding History Chickens were among the later animals to be domesticated. Early on, they were kept not for food, but for religious rituals, cultural practices, and cockfighting. In the mid-1800s, people started getting very interested in raising chickens, mainly for their looks, not for their eggs (Rose, 1996). In the 1950s, the White Leghorn became popular for its egglaying capabilities. Later, mixing Rhode Island Reds with other chickens made brown egg layers. This helped create the egglaying chickens we use today (Rose, 1996).
Egg Production Egg production starts with hens, called “layers,” and ends when the eggs are eaten or sold. It's important to handle eggs carefully at every step from laying to packaging to keep them safe and fresh. Layers are chickens that have been developed to lay eggs (see Table 1). Some common egg-laying breeds include: • • • •
White Leghorn. Rhode Island Red. Nera Black. ISA Brown. 1
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Choosing the right breeds and good management practices are essential for farmers to maximize egg yield, quality, and safety. As laying birds develop, they undergo internal growth that strengthens their muscles and skeletal structure while gradually accumulating body fat. Proper management during this stage is essential to support healthy development and future egg production. Hens go through several distinct growth phases including brooding, pullet, prelay, laying, and spent. Premature laying, calcium deficiency, feather pecking, heat or cold stress, and parasites are challenges that may be prevented by careful management.