Should chickens be allowed to eat eggs and shells heard that the may start an undersireable habit of pecking their own eggs?

Yes, chickens can eat eggs and shells. However, it is widely recommended to discourage chickens from eating eggs as it is a behavior that can easily become a serious problem:

Egg eating: Chickens that eat eggs become conditioned to the taste and often develop a persistent habit of pecking and eating their eggs. This habit is detrimental because it can cause hens to stress, damage their reproductive systems, and reduce egg production.

- Nest damage: In addition to eating the eggs, hens may also start damaging the nests and scratching at the nesting material, making it unsuitable for laying.

- Pecking other hens: Chickens that develop cannibalistic behavior may start pecking other hens, injuring them and causing stress and fear in the flock.

As a result, many chicken owners recommend avoiding providing chickens with easy access to eggs or eggshells. If you do choose to offer eggs or eggshells to your hens, it is crucial to monitor them closely and take immediate action if you notice any signs of egg-eating or aggressive behavior.

Instead of offering whole eggs, consider providing crushed or powdered eggshells as a calcium supplement. These forms are less likely to trigger the egg-eating habit and still offer the nutritional benefits of calcium. You can mix crushed eggshells into their feed or offer them as a separate supplement in a feeder or treat dispenser.