How can daylight affect egg laying in hens?

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A peacock stands with its vibrant green and blue tail feathers fully fanned out in display, showing eye-like patterns across the plumage. — Galliform Blue, or Indian, peacock (*Pavo cristatus*) displaying its resplendent feathers.

Daylight significantly influences the reproductive cycles of hens through a process known as photoperiodism.

When birds are exposed to light, it stimulates the pituitary gland to release hormones that regulate reproductive functions. In the poultry industry, this biological response is actively managed to control egg-laying, mating, and body weight. By artificially manipulating the duration of light and darkness, producers can induce or maintain egg production even outside of a hen's natural seasonal cycle. While light is a primary driver, it is important to note that other environmental factors, such as nutrition and temperature, also play a role in modifying these reproductive responses.1