Lighting Schedules for Arizona Backyard Laying Flocks

Abstract

Maintaining steady egg production in backyard flocks requires understanding how changes in daylight length influence a hen’s natural laying cycle. It’s a common misconception that cold temperatures in the wintertime lead to decreased egg production. In fact, light exposure, or photoperiod, stimulates egg production through the pineal gland and the decreased daylight length in the winter is responsible for drops in egg production. This article explores effective lighting strategies to optimize egg production, ensure consistency, and meet the needs of hens at different life stages.