Chickens typically lay between 300 to 400 eggs in their lifetime, depending on the breed and conditions of care.
Chickens typically lay between 500-1,000 eggs in their lifetime, but this varies dramatically by breed, care, and environment. Understanding a chicken’s egg-laying potential helps backyard farmers plan their flocks and manage expectations.
Average Egg Production by Chicken Age
A hen’s egg production follows a predictable pattern throughout her life:
| Age Range | Eggs Per Week | Annual Production |
|---|---|---|
| 5-18 months | 5-7 eggs | 250-300 eggs |
| 18-36 months | 3-5 eggs | 150-200 eggs |
| 3+ years | 1-3 eggs | 50-100 eggs |
When Chickens Start Laying
Most hens begin laying at 18-22 weeks (4-5 months). Breeds like Rhode Island Reds may start earlier, while larger breeds like Orpingtons often start later.
Peak Production Years
The first 18 months are most productive. After this, egg production declines about 20% annually. By age 3, most hens lay less than half their peak output.
Factors Affecting Lifetime Egg Production
Breed Differences
Some breeds are egg-laying champions:
- Commercial Hybrids (ISA Browns, Red Stars): 300+ eggs/year
- Leghorns: 280-320 eggs/year
- Rhode Island Reds: 250-300 eggs/year
- Heritage Breeds: 150-200 eggs/year
Environmental Factors
Optimal conditions maximize production:
- Light: 14-16 hours of light daily maintains laying
- Temperature: Extreme heat or cold reduces laying
- Stress: Predators, overcrowding, or pecking issues decrease output
Nutrition Requirements
Laying hens need:
- 16-18% protein feed
- Calcium for strong shells
- Constant access to clean water
- Grit for digestion
Extending Productive Laying Years
Managing Molting
Annual molting (feather loss) typically lasts 8-12 weeks. During this time, egg production stops as the hen redirects energy to regrowing feathers. Proper nutrition helps feathers regrow faster.
Winter Laying Strategies
Natural light reduction in winter triggers decreased laying. Many farmers use supplemental lighting to maintain production year-round.
When Egg Production Ends
Most hens stop regular laying by age 5-7, though they may live 8-10 years. At this stage, owners must decide whether to:
- Keep as pets
- Process for meat (stewing hens)
- Replace with younger layers
Maximizing Your Flock’s Potential
For continuous egg production:
- Rotate new pullets into the flock annually
- Maintain proper coop space requirements
- Provide balanced nutrition year-round
- Monitor for health issues
According to Poultry Extension, well-managed flocks can maintain 80% production through the second year. The Compassion in World Farming organization notes that commercial operations typically replace hens after 72 weeks when production declines.