Pullets, Point of Lay and Lighting Question

[Elkie1]

I have chicks that will reach point of lay in October. My area recieves around 11 hours of light during that time. I wanted to do the natural thing and not add supplemental lighting but am wondering will they wait to start laying until spring if I don't? I really don't want to wait THAT long for my first omelet!

I am sure it would probably be a good idea to supplement light to ensure eggs but I have no nearby electricity and haven't been able to find a solar light that wasn't super bright with a timer.

I have a mixed flock, some of which are supposed to be decent winter layers. I have New Hampshires, EE, Leghorn, Welsummer and sussex.

 

[Fred's Hens]

October is a difficult month to come into lay. It is past the autumnal equinox and thus, as you say, light is fading faster each day. First year pullets often do very very well with little or no supplemental lighting. The second year, they'll probably moult and take a lot of the fall/winter off.

You only need a few hours of morning light to encourage laying. Just from 6 am to 8 am. That's it. It'd do the trick without pushing them too hard. Or, just let them be and what happens, happens. Enjoy your pullets.

Many folks use a 100 foot exterior grade extension cord.

 

[Elkie1]

Thanks for the input. I have some time to decide but right now I think I will supplement the light this first year. I want eggs for all my hard work! LOL! I only have 6 mail order chicks, but had to dropper feed one for several days. All have made it and are now 5 weeks old. The extention cord is a good idea if I can't find a solar light with a timer.