Slowing Down: Lighting, Egg Production, and Broodiness
Welcome back to the Egg Brigade Fall blog series, backyard poultry enthusiasts! As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, we're diving into the second part of our autumn guide for your feathered friends. Last time, we talked about getting through the molt, and now that your flock is sporting their fresh new feathers, it's time to prepare them for the colder, darker months ahead.
One of the biggest challenges for backyard chicken owners in fall and winter is the natural slowdown in egg production. Shorter days mean less light, and less light signals to a hen's body that it's time to take a break from laying. But don't despair! There are steps you can take to keep those egg baskets fuller, and it all starts with understanding light.
The Power of Light
Chickens need a certain amount of light exposure to stimulate egg production. Generally, around 14-16 hours of light per day is ideal to maintain a consistent laying schedule. As natural daylight dwindles, you might consider supplementing with artificial light in your coop. This isn't about tricking your hens, but rather about providing the consistent light cues their bodies need.
A simple timer on a low-wattage LED bulb can make a world of difference. Start by adding light in the mornings before sunrise, gradually increasing the duration as the days shorten. Avoid abrupt changes, as this can stress your flock. The goal is to simulate longer days, encouraging your hens to continue laying through the winter. Remember, a dark period is still crucial for their rest and overall health, so don't leave the lights on 24/7!
Do note that every hen has a predetermined maximum number of eggs she will lay in her lifetime. This means that techniques that increase egg-laying through the winter may shorten the length of time she will lay eggs in her lifetime.
Fueling the Winter Lay: The Egg Brigade Advantage
As your chickens navigate the changes in light and temperature, their bodies are working harder. Maintaining egg production through the colder months requires ample energy and nutrients. This is where a high-quality protein source becomes invaluable, and that's precisely where Egg Brigade's dried black soldier fly larvae come in! Black Soldier Fly larvae are very high in calcium, protein and essential amino acids – providing a solid foundation of health for you hens that, when paired with proper lighting management, can set them up for success in the Winter.