Rhode Island Reds taking a laying vacation for months

[tmcd]

Hi all!
our 2 year old Rhode Island Reds began laying VERY infrequently this summer and we chalked it up to the Virginia heat. A few of them recently went through their moult so we thought this might be the cause.
however, no matter what we seem to be doing, the 7 hens are laying 1 to 2 eggs per day total and sometimes they skip a day without any eggs. They are healthy-appearing and seem to be active. Any thoughts? The person at our local supply store suggested this could be due to worms. Thoughts or experience?

 

[Yardmom]

At this time of year hens over one year take a winter break brought on by the lack of sunlight. Many birds don't lay after molting until early spring.

 

[tmcd]

At this time of year hens over one year take a winter break brought on by the lack of sunlight. Many birds don't lay after molting until early spring.

hmm, thanks! Is there any way to encourage more laying? like I said, they are VERY active/happy/seem to be hungry. we give them oyster shell calcium regularly in addition to their normal (Tractor Supply) food. The problem is that this started over the summer time and is persisting. Thanks again!