5 Best Chicken Eggshell Treats for Calcium Boost That Prevent Laying Issues
Discover 5 calcium-rich eggshell treats to boost your backyard chickens’ health! From crushed powder to fermented snacks, keep your hens laying strong eggs naturally.
The bottom line: Your backyard chickens need calcium to lay strong eggs and maintain healthy bones — and eggshell treats offer the perfect solution.
Why it matters: Calcium deficiency can lead to soft-shelled eggs, broken bones, and even egg binding, which can be fatal for your flock.
What’s next: These five eggshell-based treats will keep your chickens healthy while reducing waste from your kitchen scraps.
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Crushed Eggshell Powder: The Most Digestible Calcium Source
Crushing eggshells into powder creates the most bioavailable calcium supplement for your chickens. This fine texture allows their digestive systems to absorb calcium efficiently without straining their gizzards.
Proper Preparation Methods for Maximum Absorption
Bake eggshells at 300°F for 10 minutes to eliminate harmful bacteria like salmonella. Let them cool completely before crushing with a rolling pin or coffee grinder.
Grind shells until they reach a fine powder consistency. Coarse pieces can cause digestive issues and reduce absorption rates in your flock.
Recommended Daily Dosage for Different Flock Sizes
Provide 1 teaspoon per 6 hens daily mixed into their regular feed. Small flocks of 3-4 chickens need only half a teaspoon.
Large flocks of 20+ birds require 3-4 teaspoons distributed evenly throughout feeding areas. Monitor consumption to prevent overconsumption and ensure weaker birds get their share.
Storage Tips to Maintain Nutritional Value
Store crushed eggshells in airtight containers to prevent moisture absorption and bacterial growth. Glass jars or sealed plastic containers work best for maintaining freshness.
Organize your pantry with this 24-piece airtight container set. Featuring four sizes and reusable labels, these BPA-free canisters keep food fresh and make finding ingredients easy.
Keep storage containers in cool, dry locations away from direct sunlight. Properly stored eggshell powder retains its calcium content for up to 6 months.
Baked Eggshell Chips: Crunchy Calcium-Rich Snacks
Transform your saved eggshells into irresistible crunchy treats that’ll have your hens coming running. These calcium-packed chips offer superior texture and enhanced flavor absorption compared to simple crushed shells.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions for Perfect Texture
Break clean eggshells into quarter-sized pieces and arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until edges curl slightly and shells develop a light golden tint. Cool completely before storing in airtight containers to maintain that satisfying crunch your chickens crave.
Flavor Enhancement Options Your Chickens Will Love
Sprinkle dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or parsley over shells during the final 5 minutes of baking. Lightly dust with garlic powder or nutritional yeast for added appeal. You can even drizzle a tiny amount of olive oil before baking to help seasonings adhere better.
Safety Considerations When Serving Baked Shells
Always ensure shells reach 350°F internal temperature to eliminate salmonella and other harmful bacteria. Avoid using shells from cracked or dirty eggs, as these carry higher contamination risks. Store baked chips in moisture-free containers and discard any pieces that develop mold or unusual odors.
Eggshell and Oyster Shell Mix: Double the Calcium Power
Ensure strong eggshells and healthy hens with Pecking Order Oyster Shell. This natural calcium supplement supports consistent egg production and promotes overall bone health in your flock.
Combining crushed eggshells with oyster shell creates a calcium powerhouse that rivals commercial supplements. This dynamic duo provides both immediate and slow-release calcium absorption for optimal laying performance.
Optimal Ratios for Maximum Nutritional Benefits
Mix 60% crushed eggshells with 40% oyster shell for peak calcium delivery. This ratio leverages eggshells’ quick absorption while oyster shell provides sustained calcium release throughout the day.
Your laying hens need approximately 4 grams of calcium daily during peak production. Start with 1 teaspoon of this mixture per 4 hens and adjust based on shell quality improvements within two weeks.
Cost-Effective Sourcing Strategies for Both Ingredients
Source oyster shell from feed stores in 50-pound bags for maximum savings. You’ll pay roughly $15-20 compared to $8-10 for smaller 5-pound packages.
Local seafood restaurants often discard oyster shells that you can collect free with permission. Clean and bake these shells at 300°F for 20 minutes before crushing to eliminate bacteria and parasites.
Mixing Techniques for Even Distribution
Crush both ingredients to similar particle sizes using a rolling pin or food processor. Aim for pieces roughly the size of coarse sea salt to ensure consistent consumption across your flock.
Store the mixture in airtight containers and shake vigorously before each use. Uneven distribution means some hens get too much calcium while others receive insufficient amounts for proper egg formation.
Fermented Eggshell Treats: Probiotic-Enhanced Calcium Boost
Fermented eggshell treats combine calcium supplementation with beneficial bacteria, creating a powerhouse snack that supports both digestive health and egg production. This natural fermentation process transforms ordinary eggshells into a probiotic-rich calcium source your flock will eagerly consume.
Simple Fermentation Process for Beginners
Start with clean, crushed eggshells and place them in a glass jar with filtered water. Cover the mixture with a breathable cloth and secure with a rubber band. Allow the shells to ferment at room temperature for 3-5 days, stirring daily with a wooden spoon.
You’ll notice bubbling and a slightly sour smell when fermentation begins. The process completes when the liquid develops a tangy aroma similar to yogurt. Strain the fermented shells and offer them fresh to your chickens within 24 hours.
Additional Health Benefits Beyond Calcium Supplementation
Fermented eggshell treats introduce beneficial lactobacilli bacteria that improve gut health and nutrient absorption. These probiotics strengthen your hens’ immune systems and reduce the risk of digestive issues like sour crop or impacted crops.
The fermentation process also increases mineral bioavailability, making calcium more easily absorbed than standard crushed shells. Your hens will show improved feather quality and overall vitality within 2-3 weeks of regular consumption. The natural enzymes produced during fermentation aid in breaking down other feed components more efficiently.
Troubleshooting Common Fermentation Issues
White mold on the surface indicates contamination – discard the batch immediately and start fresh. Always use clean utensils and filtered water to prevent harmful bacteria from overtaking beneficial cultures.
If fermentation stalls after 48 hours, your water temperature might be too cold. Move the jar to a warmer location between 70-75°F for optimal bacterial activity. Overly strong vinegar smells suggest over-fermentation, which reduces palatability but doesn’t harm nutritional value.
Eggshell Calcium Grit: Natural Digestive Aid with Calcium
Eggshell calcium grit serves a dual purpose in your chicken’s diet – providing essential calcium while helping their gizzards break down food more efficiently. This natural supplement combines the digestive benefits of traditional grit with the calcium boost your laying hens need.
Grinding Techniques for Proper Grit Size
Consistency matters more than perfection when grinding eggshells into grit. You’ll want pieces roughly the size of coarse sand to small pebbles – about 2-4mm in diameter. A coffee grinder works well for small batches, while a mortar and pestle gives you better control over texture. Avoid powdering completely; your hens need slightly larger pieces that’ll stay in their gizzards longer to aid digestion.
Integration with Regular Feeding Schedules
Mix eggshell grit with your regular feed at a 5% ratio for optimal absorption. Sprinkle it over their morning feed when hens are most active and hungry. During peak laying season, you can increase to 8% of their daily feed intake. Keep a separate container available for free-choice feeding – experienced layers often self-regulate their calcium intake better than you might expect.
Signs Your Chickens Need More Calcium Supplementation
Soft or thin-shelled eggs are your first warning sign of calcium deficiency. Watch for hens eating their own eggs, which often indicates they’re desperately seeking calcium. Other red flags include brittle feathers, leg weakness, and reduced egg production. If you notice hens pecking at concrete or eating dirt obsessively, they’re likely trying to find calcium sources on their own.
Conclusion
Your chickens deserve the best calcium supplementation and these five eggshell treats deliver exactly that. You’ll boost your flock’s health while reducing kitchen waste – it’s a win-win solution for any backyard chicken keeper.
Remember that consistency is key when providing calcium supplements. Start with small amounts and gradually increase as your hens adapt to these nutritious treats.
Monitor your chickens closely for improved egg quality and overall vitality. With proper preparation and storage you’ll have a steady supply of calcium-rich supplements that’ll keep your hens laying strong healthy eggs year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs of calcium deficiency in backyard chickens?
The most common signs include soft-shelled or thin-shelled eggs, broken bones, unusual pecking behavior, and potentially fatal egg binding. Hens may also show decreased egg production and poor feather quality. If you notice these symptoms, it’s crucial to increase calcium supplementation immediately to prevent serious health complications.
How do I properly prepare eggshells for my chickens?
Clean the eggshells thoroughly and bake them at 300°F for 10 minutes to eliminate harmful bacteria. Once cooled, crush them into small pieces or powder. Avoid using shells from cracked or dirty eggs, as they may contain harmful bacteria that could make your chickens sick.
How much crushed eggshell should I give my chickens daily?
Provide 1 teaspoon of crushed eggshells per 6 hens daily. For smaller flocks, adjust accordingly (about 1/6 teaspoon per hen). During peak laying season, you may increase this amount slightly. Always monitor your hens’ egg quality to determine if they need more calcium supplementation.
Can I mix eggshells with other calcium sources?
Yes, combining crushed eggshells with oyster shell creates an excellent calcium supplement. Use a 60% eggshells to 40% oyster shell ratio for optimal benefits. This combination provides both immediate and slow-release calcium absorption, supporting consistent egg production and bone health.
How long can I store prepared eggshell treats?
Store crushed eggshell powder or baked eggshell chips in airtight containers in cool, dry locations for up to 6 months. Check regularly for signs of mold or unusual odors, and discard any contaminated treats. Proper storage prevents moisture buildup and maintains the calcium content’s nutritional value.
What are fermented eggshell treats and their benefits?
Fermented eggshell treats combine calcium supplementation with beneficial bacteria, creating probiotic-rich snacks. These treats support digestive health, improve nutrient absorption, and enhance mineral bioavailability. The fermentation process makes calcium more easily absorbed while promoting better gut health and overall hen vitality.
How do I make eggshell calcium grit for my chickens?
Grind clean, baked eggshells to achieve pieces about 2-4mm in diameter. Mix this grit with regular feed at a 5% ratio, increasing to 8% during peak laying season. This dual-purpose supplement provides essential calcium while aiding digestion by helping chickens break down food in their gizzards.
When should I increase calcium supplementation for my hens?
Increase calcium during peak laying season, typically spring and early summer. Also boost supplementation if you notice soft-shelled eggs, decreased production, or signs of calcium deficiency. Laying hens need approximately 4 grams of calcium daily during peak production periods to maintain optimal egg quality.
