Layer Chicken Egg Production Per Week (Complete Farmer’s Guide)
Layer chickens follow a predictable egg production curve from week 18 to week 30. Understanding this curve helps farmers plan feeding, lighting, and management to achieve maximum egg output. This guide explains the weekly production rate, feeding recommendations, lighting programs, and common mistakes that reduce egg production.
📌 When Do Layers Start Laying?
Most commercial layer breeds begin laying at 18–19 weeks. Production increases rapidly until it reaches peak at 24–26 weeks. Proper feeding and lighting during this period are critical for achieving high production.
📈 Egg Production Per Week (Standard Curve)
Below is the standard egg production curve used by poultry farmers worldwide:
| Week | Egg Production (%) |
|---|---|
| 18 | 5% |
| 19 | 20% |
| 20 | 45% |
| 21 | 70% |
| 22 | 85% |
| 23 | 92% |
| 24 | 95% (Peak) |
| 25 | 96% (Peak) |
| 26 | 95% |
| 27 | 94% |
| 28 | 93% |
| 29 | 92% |
| 30 | 90% |
🥚 Factors That Affect Egg Production
Several factors influence how many eggs your layers produce each week. Understanding these factors helps you manage your flock more effectively.
1. Nutrition
Layers require a balanced diet with:
- 16–18% protein
- Calcium for strong eggshells
- Energy for daily laying
- Clean water at all times
2. Lighting
Layers need 16 hours of light daily after week 18. Insufficient light reduces egg production.
3. Body Weight
Underweight birds lay fewer eggs. Monitor weight weekly to ensure proper growth.
4. Stress
Stress reduces egg production. Common causes include:
- Predators
- Noise
- Overcrowding
- Sudden feed changes
💡 Tips to Increase Egg Production
- Provide 16 hours of light daily
- Use high-quality layer mash
- Keep water clean and fresh
- Maintain proper ventilation
- Reduce stress and noise
- Keep the house clean and dry
📌 Common Mistakes Farmers Make
- Feeding growers mash instead of layer mash
- Not providing enough light
- Overcrowding the birds
- Ignoring body weight
- Dirty water or feeders
✔ Conclusion
Understanding the weekly egg production curve helps farmers manage their flocks more effectively. Use the table and graph to track your birds and improve your farm performance. Consistent feeding, lighting, and management will help you achieve peak production and maintain it for longer.
Author: Reagan Mitanda Lutwama — Unified Farm BLM
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