Why Light Matters for Egg Production
Chickens optimise egg production with approximately 15 hours of light daily. Light significantly influences egg production; therefore, because to the shorter winter days, we must augment illumination in the coop. In its absence, egg production diminishes. In our arrangement, we depend on artificial lighting due to the limited number of windows, as the hens require illumination to feed, forage, engage in play, and produce eggs.
Using Coop Lighting Year-Round
We utilise the chicken lights throughout the entire year. Nevertheless, during the summer months, when temperatures are elevated, we do not utilise them extensively. The chickens predominantly occupy their expansive run during the languid summer days.
Throughout the period when we operated our smaller coop without power, we utilised an extension cord to provide minimal lighting throughout the winter months. This was intended to assist with illumination and safeguard against predators. Chickens possess no ability to sight in darkness.
While we utilise artificial lighting to prolong daylight, I am amenable to our daughters taking a respite during the winter months. Although the artificial lighting maintains their laying, egg production inherently diminishes during the colder months. Chickens require intervals of darkness for adequate relaxation, hence achieving a balance between light and dark is essential.
In warmer climates, hens receive increased natural light and automatically recognise their bedtime. In certain areas, extra lighting may be unnecessary. In Minnesota, the scarcity of natural light necessitates the use of artificial lighting for our setup.
My chickens would be exceedingly discontented and, frankly, unhealthy without supplemental light in their coop. Your configuration significantly influences the outcome as well. I am acquainted with numerous individuals in Minnesota who maintain backyard hens without utilising any artificial lighting. Due of our very enclosed configuration (with only two windows), we utilise it. I enjoy opening the large doors on warmer days to allow an influx of natural light and fresh air. The chickens also enjoy it!
The Role of Heat Lamps in Winter
I would want to briefly address the discussion around heat lamps. We utilise a heat lamp solely when our heat panels fail to provide adequate warmth in the brooder. We utilise them judiciously, as I am aware that numerous coop fires have occurred due to these lamps. Should you need to utilise them, ensure that you inspect the cords and connectors while maintaining them in a dust-free condition. Fully feathered hens thrive during the winter months. They possess an inherent winter coat that enables them to maintain considerable comfort.
The Function of Heat Lamps During Winter
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