I’ve been really interested in getting some Silver Laced Wyandotte chickens for my backyard flock, mainly for their egg production. I’ve read that their eggs are supposed to be of good quality, but I’m hoping to get some real insights from those who have experience with them.
Here are some specific things I’d like to know:
Egg Production: How many eggs can I expect from a single hen in a week? I’ve heard varying numbers and would love to get some clarity.
Egg Characteristics: What are their eggs like in terms of size and color? It seems like some breeds can produce quite large eggs, while others lay small ones.
Breeding for Eggs: If I decide to hatch some Silver Laced Wyandotte eggs, what should I keep in mind regarding their breeding? Are there particular traits that I should look for?
Laying Behaviors: Do these hens have any quirks or specific conditions that affect their laying?
Health Considerations: Are there common health issues that can affect their egg-laying capacity?
Additional Tips:
Anything I should be particularly cautious about when raising them?
Recommendations for the best food to improve egg production?
Any advice, experiences, or insights would be greatly appreciated! I’m eager to ensure I’m doing everything right. Thank you all in advance for your help!
I’ve been raising Silver Laced Wyandottes for a couple of years now. They typically lay about 3-5 eggs per week. The eggs are usually medium-sized and a lovely light brown color!
I agree with williamhunt. My SLW hens were laying about 6 eggs a week when they were young but it definitely dropped as they aged. Now, around 3-4 per week on average.
In my experience, the egg color doesn’t change much with age. However, if a hen is stressed or unwell, you might notice some paler eggs than usual. It’s a sign to check on them!
Egg sizes can fluctuate a bit. I sometimes get a surprise with larger eggs, especially if they haven’t laid for a while. But on average, they are medium-sized.
One key tip is to provide a balanced diet and ensure they have enough space to roam. Healthy hens are happy hens! Also, regular check-ups can prevent issues.
I’ve read that Silver Laced Wyandotte eggs need a steady temperature of around 99.5°F during incubation. Humidity is also important, ideally around 50-55% for the first 18 days.
I’ve found that if you keep the eggs in a turner, it’s easier to maintain stability. Plus, Wyandottes are known for being good layers, so you have that going for you!