Easter is around the corner, and with it comes the time of colorful eggs, lovingly decorated nests, and richly set breakfast tables. But while we prepare for the celebration, many laying hens in the barn are still dealing with the last remnants of the dark season. The short days with little sunlight have consequences for the laying hens. Egg production decreases, animal welfare suffers, and vitamin D production declines.
With the targeted use of UV light to promote vitamin D, not only can animal health be strengthened, but the eggs at Easter become real nutrient bombs.
Why do chickens lay fewer eggs in winter?
The natural laying cycle of chickens is closely tied to daylight. As soon as the daylight duration falls below 14 hours, the hormonal metabolism of the animals slows down. This leads to decreased activity, declining vitamin D production, and ultimately fewer eggs produced.
Especially at Easter time – when the demand for eggs increases, this can lead to shortages or quality losses. However, modern lighting technology provides relief.
Relief through modern lighting technology
A fascinating fact from the animal world: Chickens have four color receptors in the eye, unlike us humans who only have three. The additional receptor allows them to perceive UV light. This enables them to see fine color differences, structures, and even the behavior of other animals much better. This means that a barn environment that is “well lit” for humans is often insufficient from the chickens’ perspective. Only an appropriate light design including UV components provides real orientation, safety, and wellbeing in the barn – and contributes to allowing laying hens to live out their natural behavior.
UV Light and Vitamin D – A strong duo for humans and animals
Vitamin D is just as important for chickens as it is for us humans. It strengthens the immune system, improves calcium absorption, and promotes bone stability. Vitamin D3 is produced through UV radiation from sunlight.
In modern barns, this natural source is missing. However, studies from the University of Halle, among others, show: Even short-term UV exposure is enough to significantly increase the vitamin D level in the animals’ blood.
The advantages:
- Up to three times the vitamin D content in the egg
- Stronger shells and healthier chicks in offspring
Added value for consumers – functional eggs with natural vitamin D power
More than light: Positive effects on behavior and productivity
The targeted use of UV light not only improves the nutrient quality of the eggs but also the general barn climate:
- Less stress & feather pecking through natural color perception
- Consistent laying performance
- Higher animal welfare through biological light management
Optimized social behavior thanks to UV-A receptors
Easter time is egg time – and the perfect moment for more light in the barn
A well-thought-out lighting management with a focus on UV light and vitamin D is now an essential part of modern poultry farming. It not only enables an animal-friendly environment but also offers the opportunity to position oneself clearly in the competition with high-quality products.
Those who give their animals natural light receive natural quality in return – in the form of eggs that are not only beautifully colored but also valuable inside.
Conclusion: By combining modern lighting technology and knowledge of chickens’ unique vision, the winter effect on egg production can be sustainably offset. Those who give their animals natural light receive natural quality in return.