In winter, the reduced daylight hours require supplementary artificial lighting to maintain optimal egg production in laying hens. Light plays a critical role in regulating their reproductive cycles. Increasing light exposure stimulates hormone secretion, which enhances egg-laying performance. Conversely, shorter light periods can suppress these hormones and reduce egg output. To counter this, it's recommended to extend daily lighting by 0.5 to 1 hour compared to summer and autumn, keeping the total at around 16–17 hours. This can be achieved by turning lights on earlier in the morning and off later in the evening.
Insulation is equally important during cold months. Whether the chicken house is closed or open, proper insulation should be maintained to prevent cold drafts and keep temperatures above 10°C. Plastic sheets can be used to cover windows and doors, and in poorly insulated buildings, heating systems or stoves may be necessary to sustain high productivity. Additionally, water sources must be protected from freezing to ensure hens have access to fresh, unfrozen water.
Ventilation should not be overlooked, even in winter. Many farmers focus only on sealing the house, but poor air quality due to ammonia and other harmful gases can negatively impact hen health and egg production. A balance between insulation and ventilation is essential. In closed houses, fans can be operated periodically based on air quality. For larger facilities, adjusting fan usage depending on temperature helps maintain good airflow without excessive heat loss. In windowed houses, the number and size of open windows should be adjusted according to environmental conditions.
Feeding practices should also be adapted for winter. Hens need more energy to stay warm, so increasing feeding frequency encourages higher feed intake. It’s best to ensure that all feed is consumed before lights are turned off. Adjusting the diet to include more energy, such as raising the energy level to 11.7 MJ per kg, along with increased levels of vitamins A and D, supports better egg production. Studies show that doubling vitamin A and D3 in the feed during winter can boost egg production by up to 3.5%.
Disease prevention is crucial in winter, when dry air and poor ventilation increase the risk of respiratory infections. Regular disinfection, every 3–5 days using products like 100 toxins, helps control pathogens. Monitoring antibody levels against Newcastle disease is also important. If an outbreak occurs nearby, prompt treatment with appropriate medications is necessary to protect the flock.
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