Why Egg Production Drops in Winter
Hens need roughly fourteen to sixteen hours of light per day to maintain steady egg production, and as natural daylight shortens in fall and winter, laying slows or stops for many breeds. This is a normal seasonal response tied to a hen’s reproductive cycle rather than a sign of illness.
Using Supplemental Light Responsibly
Adding a simple timer-controlled light in the coop to extend daylight to around fourteen hours can keep hens laying through winter, with early morning light generally preferred over evening light so birds still settle naturally at dusk. Keep in mind that supplemental lighting increases a hen’s lifetime egg output demand on her body, so make sure nutrition keeps pace, and consider letting hens rest naturally through at least one winter to support long-term flock health.
