Leghorn Chicken Egg Laying: What to Expect From This Prolific Layer
If you’re looking for a chicken breed that consistently delivers a high number of eggs with little fuss, the Leghorn should be at the top of your list. Known for their impressive productivity and resilience, Leghorn chickens are the go-to breed for both backyard keepers and commercial egg producers. But just how good are they at laying eggs? In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Leghorn chicken egg laying—including how many eggs to expect, when they start laying, and how to keep them productive.
Quick Answer: How Well Do Leghorns Lay Eggs?
Leghorn chickens are among the best egg-laying breeds, producing 280 to 320+ large white eggs per year. They typically begin laying at 16–20 weeks of age and continue to produce regularly for several years with proper care.
Their high output, low feed-to-egg ratio, and heat tolerance make them a favorite for anyone wanting maximum eggs with minimal maintenance.
Leghorn Egg Laying At a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Egg Production | 280–320+ eggs per year |
| Egg Color | Bright white |
| Egg Size | Large |
| Age of First Lay | 16 to 20 weeks |
| Best Laying Years | 6 months to 3 years |
| Broodiness | Rare—Leghorns rarely go broody |
When Do Leghorn Chickens Start Laying?
Leghorns typically begin laying eggs around 16 to 20 weeks of age. You’ll notice the signs: their combs will redden, their behavior may shift toward nesting, and they may start squatting when you approach.
Some early bloomers can start a bit sooner, but this depends on factors like diet, lighting, and overall health.
How Many Eggs Can You Expect?
Leghorns can lay more than 320 eggs per year, especially in their first laying season. This equals roughly 5–7 eggs per week, with very few pauses in between. Their productivity often puts them ahead of other high-laying breeds like ISA Browns and Australorps.
Fun fact: Most supermarket white eggs in the U.S. come from commercial strains of White Leghorns due to their exceptional output.
What Color and Size Are Leghorn Eggs?
Leghorns lay bright white eggs that are typically large in size. The eggshells are smooth and uniform, making them ideal for retail or home consumption. Some older hens may produce slightly larger eggs, though shell thickness may decrease with age.
Leghorns Rarely Go Broody
One reason Leghorns are so productive is that they rarely go broody. That means they don’t stop laying to sit on eggs, as many other breeds do. While this is great for egg production, it also means they’re not the best choice if you want to hatch chicks naturally.
How Long Do Leghorns Lay Eggs?
Leghorns are most productive during their first 2 to 3 years, but they can continue laying for up to 4–5 years. Egg production typically starts to decline after their second molt. Even after their prime, they’ll still lay more eggs than most heritage breeds.
With proper nutrition, clean water, and regular care, you can maximize their productive years.
Boosting Leghorn Egg Production
To keep your Leghorns laying strong, follow these key practices:
- Feed a layer-specific diet: Use a high-quality layer feed with 16–18% protein and added calcium.
- Provide oyster shell: Free-choice calcium helps maintain shell strength and prevent soft eggs.
- Use supplemental lighting: Keep light at 14–16 hours per day during winter to support laying.
- Clean nesting boxes: Fresh bedding encourages hens to lay in the correct place and keeps eggs cleaner.
- Reduce stress: Minimize flock changes, predator threats, and loud noises.
What If Your Leghorn Stops Laying?
If your Leghorn suddenly stops laying, consider the following causes:
- Molting: Egg production drops or stops while feathers regrow (usually once per year).
- Seasonal daylight changes: Less than 12 hours of light reduces egg stimulation.
- Age: Production tapers off naturally after 2–3 years.
- Nutrition: Poor diet or lack of calcium can affect laying consistency.
- Stress or illness: Parasites, injury, or disease may lead to a sudden drop.
Always inspect for signs of illness or infestation, and adjust lighting or diet as needed.
Need a Coop Built for Productivity?
A well-designed coop directly affects egg production. Dark, crowded, or drafty spaces can discourage laying. Want to build the perfect environment for your Leghorns without spending a fortune?
Download these expert DIY chicken coop and homestead plans to build the ultimate egg-laying setup. These plans cover predator-proof designs, solar lighting, ventilation, and even nesting box blueprints.
Get started here and build smarter for better eggs.
Natural Remedies for Healthy Layers
Even high-performing breeds like Leghorns can suffer from issues like soft-shelled eggs, calcium deficiency, or parasites. That’s why we recommend The Doctor’s Book of Survival Home Remedies—a complete guide to natural, home-based treatments for chickens and humans.
From improving digestion and immunity to stopping egg-binding and infections, this book equips you with 200+ remedies that work without expensive vet visits.
Click here to grab your copy and keep your flock thriving naturally.
Conclusion
Leghorn chickens are some of the most consistent and productive egg layers you can raise. With over 280 eggs per year, early maturity, and a low-maintenance personality, they’re ideal for anyone who wants a high-return flock. Start them on the right diet, keep their coop optimized, and use natural remedies to boost their longevity and performance.
- The Doctor’s Book of Survival Home Remedies – Natural treatments for chickens and homesteaders
- DIY Chicken Coop & Homestead Plans – Build the ultimate egg-laying setup
Lay smart. Raise strong. Build for success—with Leghorns leading the way.