Egg Prices Ease, Farmers Prepare for Spring Migration

By Bernt Nelson

Key Takeaways

• Egg prices have fallen sharply as production recovers after HPAI-driven volatility.
• HPAI detections rose sharply in January and February 2026 with 15.5 million birds affected in those months. While this is substantial, it is 56% fewer birds than at the same time in 2025. Detections slowed in March, reflecting progress in managing the outbreak.
• USDA is urging farmers to be vigilant with biosecurity. As the spring migration gets underway, HPAI is being detected in both wild birds and domestic poultry flocks across the country, increasing the risk of exposure.
• USDA biosecurity assessments provide poultry and egg farmers with resources to protect flocks and safeguard food supply.

After a period of sharp volatility driven by Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), egg markets are beginning to stabilize with prices easing by 57% from last year’s highs as production recovers.

That progress comes as the industry enters the spring migration period; a time of year typically associated with increased disease pressure from HPAI. However, stronger biosecurity practices, ongoing flock rebuilding and a more coordinated USDA response are helping support continued stability in both supply and markets.