Hen keeps laying but eggs never hatch

Breeding & Genetics Pairing Strategies
1

Got a hen that’s been with the same cock for two seasons. She lays normally but eggs are always clear - never develop.

The cock has bred successfully with other hens so I don’t think it’s him. She seems healthy otherwise.

Anyone experienced this? Worth trying a different cock or is she just infertile?

2

Few possibilities:

  1. They’re not actually mating properly - sometimes pairs “look” bonded but the cock isn’t treading correctly
  2. She has an internal issue - blocked oviduct, infection
  3. Timing - she might be laying before fertilization occurs

I’d try a different cock first. If same result, have a vet check her.

How old is she? Older hens can become infertile.

3

Watch them mate. Actually sit and observe.

Some pairs go through all the courtship behavior but never complete the act. The hen might be rejecting him at the crucial moment or he’s not mounting properly.

If mating looks normal and eggs are still clear, it’s likely an internal problem with the hen.

4

Had a hen like this. Turned out she had a chronic low-grade infection that was affecting fertility. Course of antibiotics and she bred fine after.

Might be worth a vet visit if she’s a valuable bird.