As the days get shorter and the nights grow longer, you might notice changes in your backyard flock. If your chickens are molting or their egg production is slowing down, you’re not alone. A chicken’s egg production naturally slows down in the fall and winter due to reduced daylight.
Why Egg Production Slows in Fall and Winter
Chickens rely on light to maintain their egg-laying cycle. When there’s less natural light in the cooler months, their bodies produce fewer eggs. If you want to keep your egg production up during the fall and winter, you’ll need to provide a supplemental light source to ensure your flock is getting between 12 to 16 hours of light per day.
How to Provide Extra Light for Egg Production
Adding a light source to your coop is simple! Here’s how to keep the eggs coming:
Set Up a Light Fixture: You can easily suspend or clamp a light fixture with a regular light bulb inside the coop. Make sure it’s positioned to provide even light throughout the space.
Use a Timer: For convenience, use a timer to control the light. This way, you can ensure your chickens get consistent light within the 12 to 16-hour window.
Important: Always use a regular light bulb, not a heat bulb, when providing supplemental light for egg production.
My Approach to Coop Lighting
Right now, I’m giving my girls some extra light to keep egg production steady. As the season progresses, I’ll gradually reduce the light to give their bodies a well-deserved break. There’s no right or wrong way to manage lighting—just do what works best for your flock!
Until next time,
-The Wing Lady