Feeding warm mash in the evening in winter to improve laying

[oregonkat]

Does feeding hens a warm meal before roosting at night improve winter laying?

 

[ChickenCanoe]

I doubt it. It takes nearly 24 hours from ovulation to produce an egg. Whether the feed is before bedtime or after doesn't matter. Overall optimal nutrition throughout the day is what is important. It doesn't matter when they eat but chickens are voracious eaters and will eat something when the crop is empty. It matters if they are eating a complete ration as opposed to treats or scratch.
Higher protein, if it has a complete array of amino acids, can enhance ovulation.

 

[oregonkat]

I doubt it. It takes nearly 24 hours from ovulation to produce an egg. Whether the feed is before bedtime or after doesn't matter. Overall optimal nutrition throughout the day is what is important. It doesn't matter when they eat but chickens are voracious eaters and will eat something when the crop is empty. It matters if they are eating a complete ration as opposed to treats or scratch.
Higher protein, if it has a complete array of amino acids, can enhance ovulation.

Thanks for taking the time to respond.