Autumn marks the beginning of the first laying period for reserve hens, making it a critical time for feeding and management. The quality of care during this stage directly impacts the overall productivity and profitability of the flock. To ensure optimal performance from your laying hens, several key management practices should be followed. One important step is to transition the feed gradually. At 20 weeks of age, hens should be fed a pre-lay diet containing 1% calcium and 16.5% crude protein. As egg production increases, the calcium level should be raised to 3.4–3.5%, while the protein content should reach 18% when the egg production rate hits 2–6%. This gradual adjustment helps support the hen's reproductive system and ensures proper development. Temperature control is also crucial. Laying hens perform best in an environment around 18°C. If temperatures drop below 13°C or rise above 25°C, their energy requirements increase, which can negatively affect both growth and egg production. In hot weather, hens may eat less, so it's essential to adjust the protein content of the feed accordingly to avoid delays in sexual maturity. Humidity and ventilation must be carefully managed. The ideal relative humidity in the poultry house is between 55% and 65%. After four weeks of age, this can be reduced slightly to around 50%. High humidity can lead to reduced feed intake and delayed sexual maturity. Poor ventilation can cause a buildup of harmful gases, increased humidity, and lower oxygen levels, all of which can stunt the growth of young hens and delay the onset of egg-laying. Clean, fresh water is essential for young hens. A laying hen typically consumes about 100 grams of water daily. Make sure they have continuous access to clean drinking water. It's recommended to use a flowing water system, and you can offer 2–3 dilute salt solutions per week to support hydration and health. By focusing on these key areas—feed transition, temperature, humidity, ventilation, and water supply—you can significantly improve the performance and longevity of your laying hens. Always monitor the flock closely and adjust management practices as needed to meet their changing needs.

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