I’ve kept a variety of breeds, and during winter, I recommend adding supplemental lighting to keep them happy. It makes a big difference!
Great point! Supplemental lighting can prevent stress and improve their overall health. Just be careful with the intensity!
I agree with xmartin! Standard layer breeds should ideally have light for 14-16 hours, while dual-purpose breeds can thrive on 12-14 hours. Seasonal adjustments are key.
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What kind of light should we use? LED or incandescent? I heard LEDs can be better for energy efficiency with all those light requirements!
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LEDs are definitely the way to go! They’re cooler, last longer, and use less energy, plus they can be adjusted for brightness.
In the spring and summer, keep lighting consistent but natural light is usually enough. Just be mindful of any obstructions that might block sunlight.
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I’ve had great results using timers for coop lights, especially for those shorter winter days. It’s so easy! I set it and forget it.
Has anyone tried colored lights? I’ve heard red or green may work as well, but I have my doubts about their effectiveness for egg production.
Interesting idea! I haven’t tried colored lights, but I wonder how the hens would react. Would they even care about the color?
I find that discussing lighting can sometimes stir up debates! Some swear by 20 hours, while others cringe at anything beyond 14. It’s a personal choice, really.
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Haha, true! But I think most experts lean towards about 14-16 hours being optimal. Over-lighting can stress the hens, you know?
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This is my first winter raising chickens, and I’m already overwhelmed! Thank you all for sharing! I’ll start setting up my lights accordingly.
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Don’t stress! You’ve got this. Just take it one step at a time, and your hens will reward you with plenty of eggs!
I feel like I should have researched this more! Light affects their moods too. It’s not just about the eggs.
I’m looking for energy-efficient lighting options too! I’ve heard that LED lights are great for chicken coops since they use less energy and can last for years. Has anyone tried them yet?
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Absolutely! I’ve been using LED lights in my coop for two years now. They help with egg production and reduce my electricity bill significantly. Just make sure they’re a warm white to keep the chickens comfortable.
What about solar-powered solutions? I’m considering them to cut costs even further. Anyone have experience with solar lights in their chicken coops?
I’ve installed solar lights in my coop, and they work quite well! They do lose some intensity in winter, but overall it’s a great eco-friendly solution.
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Did you find they kept the coop adequately lit during winter months? I’m worried about maintenance during the colder seasons.
Maintenance isn’t too bad! Just check the panels regularly for snow or debris. As for lighting, I combine solar with some LED backup lights for reliability.