kismit
Chirping
it is completely normal and natural for production to drop during the waning time of sun light during the year. it is their rest period, because why would nature push them to provide for themselves and their chicks during the lean time?
much like humans, chickens hatch with their entire fertility potential (read, potential eggs) already set. so prolonging their light cycle out of the seasonal norms both extends your lay season for the year, but also decreases the years the hens will lay.
supporting them nutritionally can *help* if its a nutrient related issue, such as a hard molt. but it doesn't change their base nature in a way to cause them to lay.
do i currently have a light on a timer in my coop? yep. but its set for 30 minutes after sunset because the wee darlings like pulling the "go to bed? no! i'm a party chicken and i like to party party!" far too often if i don't.
much like humans, chickens hatch with their entire fertility potential (read, potential eggs) already set. so prolonging their light cycle out of the seasonal norms both extends your lay season for the year, but also decreases the years the hens will lay.
supporting them nutritionally can *help* if its a nutrient related issue, such as a hard molt. but it doesn't change their base nature in a way to cause them to lay.
do i currently have a light on a timer in my coop? yep. but its set for 30 minutes after sunset because the wee darlings like pulling the "go to bed? no! i'm a party chicken and i like to party party!" far too often if i don't.