Adult Breeder Laying Hens - 11-13 Month Olds

Rehomed Breeder Hens from Whiting Farms Hatchery
 
Whiting Farms Hatchery is committed to responsibly rehoming the hens that helped produce this year’s chicks. These birds were part of our breeding program and may show “rooster rough” feathering due to mating activity.
 
These hens have plenty of egg laying ahead of them, but require extra time and TLC as they adjust to their new homes. We strongly encourage you to review our Transition Tips Guide to help make the process smoother.
 
Transition Feeding Tips
To support egg production and encourage a healthy appetite during the transition, we recommend feeding a corn/soy-based wet mash (layer ration) for at least the first two weeks. Stress and unfamiliarity with new feed types—especially pellets or signficantly different formulations—can lead to weight loss and a significant delay in laying. We did some "home farm" testing, and high caloric intake seems to be the #1 factor between birds that quickly resume laying and those who are delayed.
 
We highly recommend avoiding no-corn/no-soy diets during this adjustment period. Many alternative feeds lack the protein levels necessary for hens recovering from the stress of relocation and molting, plus they may be aversive to the new taste. Once your hens are settled and thriving, you can gradually introduce your preferred long-term feed.
 
Some hens may molt shortly after arriving at their new location. Egg production typically resumes after the molt, but the timing can vary. Depending on your care and the season, hens may begin laying again in 1 to 4 months. Birds rehomed in the spring often return to lay during the summer, especially if supplemental lighting is provided. Birds rehomed in the fall may not lay again until spring—this is particularly true for lower-production breeds such as Wyandottes.
 
While these hens can thrive in free-range or pasture-based systems over time, they are not immediately suited for environments like mobile coops. They are unfamiliar with outdoor living, ramps, nest boxes, and roosting bars, and need a gentler transition.