Layer hens: content in winter without problems

The content of laying hens in winter will largely depend on what kind of breed is present in the bird's yard. In total, six main types of layers are identified: Andalusian blue, Leggorn white, Kurapatchataya Italian, Minorca, White Russian, Ukrainian Ushanka.

Of all the above diversity, the best characteristics for survival in the cold are Ukrainian laying hens. The winter content of these birds is facilitated by the fact that they have a small body, short legs and a dense, well-fitting, feathering. In addition, increased unpretentiousness of Russian white chickens.

What are the conditions for laying hens? The content in winter suggests that most of the time they will be in the henhouse. If there are severe frosts in the region , it is better to design the room initially taking into account the temperature characteristics. For example, before entering the chicken coop, you need to build a vestibule in which the air will warm up a little.

In addition, the maintenance of laying hens in winter will require the insulation of the floor (usually a thick layer of sawdust is laid), installation of additional light sources (very relevant with a shorter daylight). Walls from the inside, as well as the roof of the chicken coop, need to be encased with a heat-insulating material, and be prepared to connect additional heating in the form of a heater, incandescent lamps, infrared panels. Devices are purchased at the rate of one kilowatt for 8-10 square meters of space, but on condition that its walls are sufficiently insulated.

Do not forget about the "grandfather's" ways of warming for the winter. Here, a special layer is laid on the floor of a large layer of shavings, dry leaves, sawdust, and chopped straw. To the original height of 0.15 meters, about 5-6 cm is added weekly, while the different layers are mixed and loosened. Due to thermochemical processes in the above materials, a temperature of up to 30 degrees is generated inside the deep layer of the litter, where the chickens feel very comfortable. However, do not forget about airing the room so that the harmful smell of ammonia does not stagnate.

How to make so that in December and January eggs of laying hens are given? The winter content in this case should ensure the proper temperature in the henhouse, as well as full-fledged feeding. In the winter diet, the main place is occupied by cooked root crops and potatoes (up to 0.1 kg per head per day). Also it is necessary to give about 60 g of grain and 25 g of bran. Two grams of fishmeal, three grams of chalk and one gram of salt for each chicken. In connection with the lack of vitamins, about 40 grams of greenery will still be required to maintain immunity and produce quality and delicious eggs.

What do laying hens need? The content in winter and summer means the need for a bird in the water. It should be clean, warm enough, replaced with contamination, which will save chickens from disease, and their owners from damages. If the chicken coop is cold, then in the frost, drinkers should be constantly checked for freezing.