Effects of Sunlight on 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. In order to maintain constant production, careful regulation of the hen's environment is crucial. Several factors influence the chicken's ability to lay eggs. Although nutrition is very important for egg laying, the effect of sunlight is greater.

  1. Decreasing Sunlight

    • Reduction of sunlight can cause a reduction in egg lay. All bird's reproductive systems are highly regulated by the amount of sunlight received per day. When day length falls below 12 hours per day, egg production decreases and may cease completely. This occurs naturally during the winter months and can be prevented by providing artificial light.

    Inadequate Sunlight

    • Inadequate length of sunlight causes a drop in egg production. In order to maintain consistent egg production, laying hens need a minimum of 14 hours of light per day. Some recommend 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.

    Direct Sunlight

    • Direct sunlight with no shade can be detrimental.

      Too much sun during extremely hot weather without shelter or shade can cause heat stress. Productive performance can be significantly reduced in caged hens resulting from direct sunlight. Overall health and longevity can also suffer from extended periods of direct sunlight without shade.