Bright security light outside coop.

[DeeSully]

First time chicken owner here! I've searched this topic endlessly and can't seem to find a definitive answer. We have a very bright security light outside our new coop that we cannot turn off. It comes on at dusk and turns off at dawn. It shines through the ventilation and lights up the roof of the coop. I'm concerned that it is affecting the hens sleep, and therefore laying, because their brood siblings have begun laying and mine haven't. I can't think of any other reason why they might not be laying yet. We live right on the equator so we are only getting 12 hours of daylight, but these are local hens from a neighbour who has had huge success with his layers. My hens put themselves to bed every evening, so they do know it's night time, but could the light at night be a problem? Thank you!

 

[DobieLover]

First time chicken owner here! I've searched this topic endlessly and can't seem to find a definitive answer. We have a very bright security light outside our new coop that we cannot turn off. It comes on at dusk and turns off at dawn. It shines through the ventilation and lights up the roof of the coop. I'm concerned that it is affecting the hens sleep, and therefore laying, because their brood siblings have begun laying and mine haven't. I can't think of any other reason why they might not be laying yet. We live right on the equator so we are only getting 12 hours of daylight, but these are local hens from a neighbour who has had huge success with his layers. My hens put themselves to bed every evening, so they do know it's night time, but could the light at night be a problem? Thank you!

It could be. Why can't it be turned off?
If it can't be turned off, can you put some shudders on the side that the light is shining on and open up additional ventilation on the other side?

 

[Callender Girl]

I have what most people call a "farm light," a bright outdoor pole light that runs from dusk to dawn and which I can't control. It illuminates much of the property and including the coops. I don't think mine have been adversely affected by the lights.

But, can you try @DobieLover's ideas?

 

[DeeSully]

Thank you for the replies! Unfortunately I have no control over the light, it's part of a wider security system in the area. I've just made a makeshift curtain that should block a lot of the light but still allow air flow. I live in a very humid climate so ventilation is a major priority. If they all suddenly start laying we'll know it was the light that disturbed them! Thanks again for the help!

 

[aart]

An awning outside over the window might be best, should block light but not airflow.