egg laying in the winter.

[rocknrod428]

I live in central illinois and wonder what to expect from the colder months. This is my first winter of having chickens and just know what to do. I have a good idea on what I need but there will be a learning curve until I get through a winter or two. Should I build a small room in my coop with a heater or just let them be.

 

[txchickie]

Mine shut down to about 1/4 of their normal egg production, maybe less than that. I don't add any artificial light or heat for them, I'm not sure how that affects their laying.

IMO nature gives them that break because their bodies need that break. What works for some doesn't work for others, personally I would let them be

 

[fowler_chick]

depending on the breed of chicken, i have BR and according to hendersons chicken chart there suposed to be winter egg layers, it does slow down for them