What Should I Feed Laying Hens in Winter? Ontario Chicken Feeding Guide

Winter in Ontario can be challenging for laying hens. Cold temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and increased energy requirements can affect egg production and overall chicken health.

During winter months, laying hens need a balanced diet with enough energy, protein, vitamins, minerals, and fresh water to maintain body condition and continue producing healthy eggs.

Choosing the right winter chicken feed helps Ontario backyard chicken keepers support their flock through freezing temperatures while maintaining strong egg production.

What Do Laying Hens Need During Ontario Winters?

When temperatures drop, chickens use more energy to maintain their body temperature. This means winter feeding requirements are different compared to warmer months.

A healthy winter diet for laying hens should include:

• Complete layer feed

• Adequate protein

• Energy-rich grains

• Calcium for eggshell strength

• Fresh water

• Supplemental treats in moderation

  
  

The foundation of your flock’s nutrition should always be a quality layer feed designed specifically for egg-producing hens.

Best Chicken Feed for Laying Hens in Winter

1. Complete Layer Feed

A high-quality layer feed should provide the essential nutrients hens need every day.

Look for:

• Around 16–18% protein

• Balanced vitamins and minerals

• Calcium for strong eggshells

• Proper amino acid levels

  
  

For Ontario backyard flocks, layer pellets or layer crumble are commonly used during winter because they provide consistent nutrition even when pasture access is limited.

Layer Pellets vs Layer Crumble During Winter

Both pellets and crumble can be excellent choices for laying hens.

Feed Type	Benefits
Layer Pellets	Less waste, easy feeding, economical for larger flocks
Layer Crumble	Easier for smaller hens to eat, good for mixed-age flocks

Many Ontario chicken keepers choose crumble during colder months because hens often prefer smaller feed particles when spending more time inside the coop.

Actual consumption depends on:

• Temperature

• Breed

• Age

• Egg production

• Access to outdoor areas

  
  

During very cold Ontario weather, hens may naturally consume more feed.

Looking for quality chicken feed in Ontario?

Chatham Farm Feed & Supplies offers reliable poultry feed options for backyard chicken keepers, including layer feeds and scratch grains to support healthy hens year-round.

Shop quality chicken feed today and keep your flock healthy through every season.

Winter Feeding Tips for Ontario Chicken Keepers

1. Provide Feed Throughout the Day

Cold weather means hens need regular access to food.

Avoid long periods without feed, especially during freezing temperatures.

2. Keep Water From Freezing

Fresh water is just as important as feed.

Hens require water for:

• Digestion

• Egg production

• Nutrient absorption

  
  

Use heated waterers or check water frequently during freezing conditions.

3. Add Calcium Support

Laying hens require calcium for strong eggshells.

Good calcium sources include:

• Layer feed

• Oyster shell supplements

  
  

Always provide calcium separately if additional supplementation is needed.

4. Reduce Feed Waste

Winter feed costs can increase because chickens spend more time indoors.

Reduce waste by:

• Using proper feeders

• Keeping feed dry

• Avoiding overfilling feeders

  
  

Do Chickens Stop Laying Eggs in Winter?

Many hens naturally reduce egg production during winter because of shorter daylight hours.

Factors affecting winter egg production include:

• Less sunlight

• Cold temperatures

• Breed genetics

• Nutrition

• Age of hens

  
  

Providing proper nutrition helps hens maintain better production naturally.

Best Winter Treats for Laying Hens

Healthy winter treats include:

• Pumpkin

• Leafy greens

• Mealworms

• Vegetables

• Small amounts of corn

  
  

Treats should remain less than 10% of the daily diet to prevent nutritional imbalance.

Common Winter Feeding Mistakes

Feeding Too Much Scratch Grain

Scratch provides calories but does not contain complete nutrition.

Too much scratch can reduce protein intake.

Changing Feed Suddenly

Sudden feed changes can cause digestive problems.

Always transition gradually over several days.

Ignoring Water

Frozen water can quickly reduce feed intake and egg production.

Ontario Winter Chicken Feeding Schedule Example

Time	Feed
Morning	Complete layer feed
Midday	Check water and refill feeders
Afternoon	Small amount of scratch grain
Evening	Ensure feed availability before cold night

FAQ

What is the best feed for laying hens in Ontario winter?

The best winter feed for laying hens is a complete layer feed containing approximately 16–18% protein, balanced minerals, and calcium for egg production.

Do laying hens need more food in winter?

Yes. Hens usually eat more during cold weather because they use additional energy to maintain body temperature.

Can chickens eat corn in winter?

Yes, corn can provide extra energy during winter, but it should only be given as a supplement and not replace balanced layer feed.

Should I switch chicken feed during winter?

Usually, no. A quality layer feed can be fed year-round. The important thing is maintaining proper nutrition and adjusting management during cold weather.

Why are my hens laying fewer eggs in winter?

Reduced daylight, colder temperatures, age, and seasonal changes can naturally decrease egg production.