Information About Laying Hens

Laying hens are used to produce eggs for human consumption. Many eggs are sold commercially through grocery stores. Laying hens produce one egg per day. Most hens start producing eggs by 6 months of age. Maintaining a proper environment will enhance egg laying.

  1. Breeds of Laying Hens

    • A Sussex hen and chick.

      There are many types of chickens. However, through careful breeding, there are about five which have become the most efficient egg layers. These include: leghorn, Rhode Island red, Sussex, golden comet and barred rock.

    Required Daylight

    • Real or artificial light is required for consistent egg laying.

      In order to maintain consistent egg production, laying hens need a minimum of 14 hours of light per day. Some require 16 to 18 hours of light daily. Sunlight and artificial light can be combined in order to achieve these minimums. Installing a 40-watt light for each 100 square feet of laying area is a functional alternative to sunlight.

    Feed

    • Feed must be adjusted once a hen starts laying.

      Feed chickens a starter mix until they feather out then follow up with a maintenance feed. Once laying, chickens can be fed an egg booster and scratch. There are three forms of feed. A mash is powdery. Pellets are made up of condensed mash. Crumbles consist of broken pellets. Spread insoluble grit over the ration once a week.

    House Keeping

    • Housing facilities must be cleaned regularly.

      Keep litter (bedding) clean and dry to avoid spread of disease. If using a chicken coop or hen house, sweep out manure as it starts to build up. Replace bedding weekly. Sanitize twice a year.

    Temperature

    • The temperature should stay between 45 degrees and 85 degrees F. A fan or open windows can be utilized to cool the hens in the summer. A heat lamp can implemented during the winter months.

    Protection

    • Laying hens require protection from the elements. Most hens are intolerant of cold temperatures, wind and rain. Too much sun during extremely hot weather without shelter or shade can cause heat stress. Egg production may be be significantly reduced if hens are exposed to direct sunlight. Overall health and longevity can suffer from extended periods without shade.