Best Strategies for Breeding Chickens for Larger Egg Production?

[SilkieSam]

Hey everyone,

Im working on improving egg production in my flock, specifically aiming for larger eggs. My current approach has been hatching the biggest, best-looking eggs, but Im not sure if this is the most effective method.

I have 14 hens, but I suspect a few of them arent the best layers. Many of my hens also lay medium-sized eggs, while Im looking to consistently produce large or jumbo-sized ones. The challenge is that I dont know which hens are my strongest or weakest layers since I cant track who is laying which eggs.

Whats the best way to identify my top layers and selectively breed for better egg size and production? Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated!

[BeckyBroody]

Try using roll-away nest boxes or trap nests to track which hens lay which eggs. That way, you'll know exactly which birds to breed from.

[CoopCaptain]

Hens laying medium eggs might not have the genetics for larger ones. A well-bred rooster from a jumbo-egg strain could help improve your flock.

[ChickadeeChampion]

Medium egg size may be genetic, so if your hens aren't laying large eggs now, you'll need to select for bigger egg genetics. First, identify your best layers by using a tracking method like trap nests or separating birds for observation. Once you know who's laying what, breed only from those laying the biggest eggs. Also, consider the rooster's genetics,if he comes from a line that produces small or medium eggs, it will impact the next generation. Long-term selection is key!

[TheFlockKeeper]

Feed impacts egg size too! Make sure your hens get enough protein and calcium to support larger egg production.