Top Fruits for Egg Laying Hens: Boost Eggshell Strength Naturally

When caring for poultry, it’s essential to focus on their diet, especially when it comes to egg laying hens. Fruits for egg laying hens are not only tasty treats, but they can also support healthy egg production. Calcium is a crucial nutrient for laying hens as it strengthens eggshells, preventing breakage and ensuring overall health. Including calcium-rich fruits in their diet is a great way to maintain strong, durable eggs. Below, we’ll cover the top fruits that will help your hens produce solid eggshells while keeping them healthy and happy.

Calcium-Rich Fruits for Your Laying Hens

Fruits can be a great source of calcium for egg laying hens. While many people rely on supplements or commercial feed to provide this mineral, adding natural sources like fruits to their diet can boost their calcium intake. Here are some fruits you can feed your poultry to help them build sturdy eggshells:

1. Tangerines
Tangerines are a flavorful fruit that can provide a moderate amount of calcium. These juicy segments are not only a treat but also beneficial for your hens’ bone health and eggshell strength.

2. Kiwifruit
Kiwifruit is packed with calcium and antioxidants, making it an excellent choice for your egg laying hens. It helps form strong eggshells while supporting overall health with its rich vitamin content.

3. Prickly Pears
Prickly pears are fun to feed your hens and provide a solid dose of calcium. This cactus fruit can help with eggshell formation, making it a unique and nutritious addition to your chickens’ diet.

4. Oranges
Oranges may not be the highest in calcium, but they still offer a good amount to support eggshell development. The vitamin C they contain can also boost the immune system, helping your hens stay healthy.

Adding Variety to Your Hen’s Diet

Including a variety of fruits in your hens’ diet provides calcium and helps ensure they get a broad spectrum of vitamins and nutrients. Here are a few more fruits that can be beneficial:

5. Mulberries
Mulberries are rich in calcium and antioxidants. These sweet berries can help improve the structural integrity of eggshells while offering a tasty, nutrient-packed snack.

6. Guavas
Guavas are another tropical fruit that can contribute a significant amount of calcium. They also offer a great mix of vitamins and fiber, promoting strong bones and eggshells in laying hens.

7. Blackberries
Blackberries contain a good amount of calcium, making them an excellent choice for your hens. Their deep color indicates they’re full of nutrients, which can help with egg production and overall hen health.

8. Papaya
Papaya provides a moderate amount of calcium, helping with eggshell development. The tropical sweetness of papaya makes it a favorite for many hens, adding variety to their diet while also supporting bone health.

More Options for Calcium in Your Poultry’s Diet

Adding seeds and other calcium-rich foods to your hens’ diet can further help them maintain strong eggshells.

9. Passion Fruit
Passion fruit is a delicious, calcium-rich fruit that will keep your hens healthy while supporting their egg-laying process. Its unique flavor is sure to be a hit with your flock.

10. Seeds (Pumpkin, Sunflower, Sesame)
Seeds like pumpkin, sunflower, and sesame are packed with calcium. These can be sprinkled on your hens’ food or given as a treat to help boost their calcium intake.

Why Calcium Matters for Laying Hens

Calcium is essential for egg laying hens as it contributes to the formation of strong eggshells. When hens lack enough calcium, they may lay eggs with thin or even shell-less eggs, which can easily break and lead to health issues for the birds. Ensuring your hens get enough calcium helps prevent these problems and promotes a healthier, more productive flock.

By feeding your hens a variety of high calcium fruits, you’re not only supporting their ability to lay quality eggs, but you’re also ensuring their overall well-being. Healthy hens will produce better eggs, and they’ll have stronger bones, reducing their risk of fractures.

Conclusion

Incorporating fruits like tangerines, kiwifruit, and papaya into your hens’ diet is a simple way to improve their calcium intake and promote strong, healthy eggshells. While these fruits provide essential vitamins and minerals, they also add variety to their meals, making their diet more enjoyable. Focusing on proper nutrition ensures your hens stay happy, healthy, and productive, ultimately leading to a successful egg-laying routine.

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