I have had hens lay fertil eggs at 9 weeks, and others still laying after 6 years. I think pigeons can lay fertil eggs for much longer, just don't have any personal experience beyond 6 years.
Anyone else have information on this?
Regards,
Carl

 

The oldest hen I've seen still breeding was 11 years old. She didn't seem to have any problems. But then again, I had a hen who was four years old become egg-bound and die. Seemed that she didn't breed for six months or so, then when she tried again she didn't make it. It seems to affect the males diffrently, I have a male fantail who is 11 years old, and he's as active as ever, courts everything that moves, lol.

------------------
David and Kellie Dittmaier
Haven's Loft
www.haven-lofts.cityslide.com

 

Dave,
I need you to email me please. Please email me as soon as you can. Nothing important just something you might be interested in.

ludus54@hotmail.com

 

David:

If you have a hen that's egg bound, warm her up and force calcium supplements, with a syringe, if need be. I've been told many times, that calcium is vital to a hen during breeding--the lack of which can even cause paralysis. Conversely, I've heard of improvement in a matter of hours, pumping calcium.

I'm not saying it would have made a difference--it's just a thought...

Sorry about your hen.

--Ray