Eggshells are a great natural source of calcium that helps chickens lay stronger eggs. Instead of throwing them away, you can safely feed them back to your flock with a few simple steps.
1. Collect the Eggshells
Save clean, unbroken eggshells after cooking or baking. Rinse them with water to remove any egg residue, which helps prevent attracting pests or bacteria.
2. Dry the Eggshells
Spread the rinsed shells on a baking tray and let them air-dry for a few hours, or bake them in the oven at 180ยฐC (350ยฐF) for 5โ10 minutes until crisp. Drying helps them crush more easily and stay fresh longer.
3. Crush the Eggshells
Once dry, crush the shells into small pieces โ about the size of coarse gravel. Avoid powdering them completely so your chickens recognize them as feed and not egg remnants.
4. Mix with Feed or Offer Separately
You can mix the crushed shells with your chickensโ regular feed or place them in a separate container for free-choice feeding. Most hens will eat them as needed.
5. Store Extras Properly
Keep leftover crushed shells in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. This prevents moisture and mold from forming between uses.
๐ Remember
Feeding eggshells is an easy, sustainable way to boost calcium and support healthy egg production. Your hens โ and their shells โ will thank you!
