Most healthy laying hens produce about one egg every 24 to 26 hours, which translates to roughly one egg per day, though not every hen lays an egg daily due to factors like molting, weather, stress, and age
. On average, a hen lays between 4 to 6 eggs per week, with some high- producing breeds capable of laying more, up to around 300 eggs per year during their peak laying period
. While it is extremely rare, some hens can occasionally lay two or even three eggs in a single day, but this is not typical and not sustainable over time
. The egg-laying process is biologically demanding, taking about 25 hours per egg, with the formation of the eggshell being the most time-consuming part due to the high calcium requirement
. In commercial settings, hens are selectively bred to maximize egg production, often laying close to one egg per day, but this can come at a cost to their health
. Backyard or heritage breeds may lay fewer eggs, averaging about half an egg per day per hen on a yearly basis
. In summary:
- Typical rate: 1 egg every 24-26 hours (about 1 egg/day)
- Weekly average: 4 to 6 eggs per hen
- Yearly average: 200-300 eggs depending on breed and conditions
- Rare cases: 2-3 eggs in a single day, but not common or sustainable
This means while a chicken can lay about one egg per day, it is normal for them to have days without laying
