1. Provide a Balanced and Nutritionally Complete Diet

Feeding your birds the right diet is the first step to healthy layers.

Why Nutrition Matters:

Calcium is essential for strong eggshells.

Protein supports egg production and muscle maintenance.

Energy helps with general productivity and health.

Poor feeding leads to thin-shelled or shell-less eggs, weak birds, and reduced output.

What To Feed:

Use quality layer mash or pellets with:

• 16–18% crude protein
• 3–4% calcium (from sources like oyster shells or limestone)
• Essential vitamins and minerals (Vitamin D3, phosphorus, etc.)

Provide grit or crushed stones to aid digestion.

Ensure clean, cool water is always available — dehydration slows down laying.

2. Ensure Adequate Lighting (14–16 Hours Daily)

Layers are photoperiod-sensitive — their laying cycle depends on the number of hours of light they receive daily.

Why Light Is Important:

• Stimulates the pituitary gland to produce hormones that trigger egg laying.
• Keeps birds active and feeding.

What To Do:

• Provide at least 14–16 hours of light daily, especially in the rainy season or during Harmattan.
• Use energy-saving bulbs or LED lights inside the coop.
• Ensure light intensity is around 10–20 lux (enough to read a newspaper at bird level).
• Use timers for automated lighting schedules if possible.

3. Maintain a Clean, Dry, and Well-Ventilated Coop

Poor coop hygiene is one of the most common causes of disease and low egg production.

Why Sanitation Matters:

• Reduces disease risk (like coccidiosis, E. coli, Newcastle).
• Prevents buildup of ammonia gas, which causes respiratory distress.
• Ensures birds are comfortable and stress-free.

What To Do:

• Use deep litter system with materials like wood shavings, rice husks, or sawdust — change regularly.
• Sweep droppings, remove leftover feed, and clean drinkers daily.
• Install cross ventilation: use mesh wire, windows, or vents to allow airflow.
• Disinfect the coop weekly with poultry-safe disinfectants.

4. Prevent & Manage Stress

Stress causes hormonal imbalances that reduce egg-laying rates.

Stress factors include:

• Loud noise or sudden movements
• Overcrowding
• Rough handling
• Poor weather conditions (too hot, too cold)
• Changes in feed or environment

What To Do:

• Keep 4–5 birds per square meter.
• Avoid mixing new birds with older ones without quarantine.
• Maintain a routine: feed at the same time, clean regularly, and keep the coop peaceful.
• Install protective fencing to keep out predators (snakes, dogs, hawks).

5. Health Monitoring and Vaccination

Layers need regular health checks and protection from common poultry diseases.

What to do:

• Deworm every 2–3 months using poultry-approved dewormers.
• Observe birds for signs of sickness: drooping wings, loss of appetite, ruffled feathers.
• Follow a proper vaccination schedule (Newcastle, Gumboro, Fowl Pox, etc.)
• Work with a vet or agri-extension officer for guidance.

Healthy birds = safe, profitable eggs.

Final Thoughts

Raising layers isn't just about feeding and waiting — it's about creating the right environment for consistent egg production. At Alawusa Heritage Fish & Farms, we blend decades of traditional know-how with modern practices to raise healthy, happy hens that lay quality eggs Nigerian families can trust.

Whether you're just starting or managing a growing flock, apply these tips to make your poultry operation cleaner, healthier, and more productive.

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