Effect of photoperiod on the mean oviposition time of two breeds of laying hen.

Abstract

1. Oviposition times were recorded for brown and white egg-laying hybrids under 8, 10, 13 and 18 h photoperiods. 2. Mean oviposition time for both breeds was advanced relative to dusk by approximately 0.5 h for each 1 h extension of photoperiod. 3. Mean oviposition time for the brown egg hybrid was 1.2 to 1.4 h earlier than that of the white egg hybrid under each lighting regimen. 4. A genetic difference in phase setting of the Open Period for Luteinising Hormone (LH) release is the likely reason for the difference in mean time of lay of the two breeds. The difference is possibly one between brown and white hybrids generally, rather than between the particular varieties of hen used in this trial. 5. The proportion of the day in which eggs are laid is shorter under long photoperiods presumably because light at the end of the photoperiod inhibits the pre-ovulatory surge of LH.