Forced Molting In Hens
20 Jan
“I’ve heard that large egg producers will cause their hens to molt early. How do they do this and what is their reasoning? Why would they want their hens to go out of production? Aren’t they in the business of selling eggs?” ~ David Horton, Marana, Arizona
Thanks for the question David.
You can induce a molt although I’m not sure why the typical backyard farmer would have a need for it.
It is my understanding also that many large, battery farms practice molt induction.
The reason this practice would appeal to a large egg producer has everything to do with making money.
Once a pullet has gone through her first molt, she lays larger eggs than in her first season. Larger eggs bring a higher price. The earlier she starts to lay the larger eggs, her more profitable egg laying life span increases.
By inducing a molt, the egg producer can increase his profit margin. (more…)
