Misshapen eggs from chickens can be caused by a variety of diseases, conditions, and environmental factors. Here are some of the most common causes of misshapen eggs:

  • Infectious bronchitis: This is a viral respiratory disease that affects chickens and can cause misshapen eggs, as well as reduced egg production and fertility.
  • Egg drop syndrome: This is a viral disease that can cause soft-shelled, misshapen, or shell-less eggs. This disease can also cause a decrease in egg production. While the virus is naturally occurring in waterfowl such as ducks and geese, EDS occasionally finds its way into domestic chickens
  • Avian influenza: This viral disease can cause misshapen eggs, as well as other symptoms such as decreased egg production, respiratory symptoms, and high mortality rates.
  • Newcastle disease: This is a viral disease that can cause thin-shelled, misshapen, or rough eggs. It can also cause respiratory symptoms and high mortality rates in chickens.
  • Vitamin D deficiency: A lack of vitamin D in a chicken’s diet can cause misshapen eggs with thin shells.
  • Mycotoxicosis: This is a condition caused by consuming feed contaminated with fungal toxins. It can cause thin-shelled, misshapen, or shell-less eggs.
  • Stress: Stressful conditions such as overcrowding, extreme temperatures, or sudden changes in the environment can cause misshapen eggs.
  • Genetic factors: Some breeds of chickens are more prone to producing misshapen eggs due to genetic factors.

In conclusion, misshapen eggs in chickens can be caused by a variety of diseases, conditions, and environmental factors. Proper nutrition, management, and biosecurity measures can help prevent these issues in your backyard flock.

 

Written using ChatGPT and revised and edited for content by Dr. Maurice Pitesky at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine.