When the days get shorter and colder, you may notice your hens slowing down—or even stopping—egg production. This is completely natural, but the good news is there are a few things you can do to help keep fresh eggs coming all winter long.
1. Light
The main reason hens stop laying in winter is a lack of daylight. Egg production is triggered by the amount of light that stimulates the pituitary gland, which controls hormone levels. Without enough light, your hens simply won’t lay.
To keep production up, provide about 14 hours of light per day. You can add an electric, battery-powered, or solar light to the coop. Lantern-style lights work well—they’re bright enough without disturbing the hens. Avoid heat lamps, as they can get dangerously hot and increase fire risks.
2. Molting
Hens usually molt around 18 months of age, often in the fall or early winter. During this time, they shed old feathers and grow new ones, which takes a lot of energy. Because of this, egg laying often slows down or stops completely.
While molting is a natural process, you can support your hens with a protein boost. High-protein treats like Dried Mealworms (bulk) or Grub-Worms Black Soldier Fly Larvae give them extra energy to recover and may even encourage continued laying.
3. Diet
In winter, foraging is limited, and much of the hens’ dietary energy goes into staying warm rather than producing eggs. To help, provide plenty of high-quality feed along with protein-rich supplements.
Treats like Chicken Ecstasy, mealworms, or soldier fly larvae not only give your hens the nutrients they need but also encourage egg production.
4. Stress
Cold weather and being cooped up indoors can stress hens, and stress is a major factor in reduced egg laying. To help, let your flock outside on mild winter days. If there’s snow, spread straw on the ground so they have a comfortable place to walk. For reluctant hens, toss out some mealworms to entice them.
If the weather keeps them inside, give them enrichment to fight boredom. A halved pumpkin or squash in the coop provides entertainment and a nutritious snack. You can also add toys like the Chicken Jingle Ball, which dispenses treats while your hens peck and play. This keeps them active, reduces stress, and provides mental stimulation during long winter days.
Final Thoughts
Chickens will always slow down a bit in winter, but by managing light, supporting them through molting, providing extra protein, and reducing stress, you can keep your hens laying longer into the season. With the right care (and the help of high-protein treats like Exotic Nutrition’s Dried Mealworms, Black Soldier Fly Larvae, and Chicken Ecstasy), you can enjoy farm-fresh eggs all year long.
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Notice: Exotic Nutrition cannot provide specific care guidelines on an individual basis. Please consult a veterinarian or experienced breeder.
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