Understanding the laying break · Chickens

The autumn laying break: light, moult & protein – what your hens need now

📅 October 2026 ⏱ 5 min read EntoSus GmbH · Bremen

Not a single egg in the nest for weeks? Don't worry: a laying break in autumn is completely normal for hens. We explain why that is and how to support your hens through it.

Why hens lay less in autumn

Hens lay mainly when the days are long. As daylight fades in autumn, laying drops off — often into a proper break.

On top of that, many hens go through their annual moult. They replace their plumage, and that takes a great deal of energy and protein. Little is left over for producing eggs.

The three most common reasons

Reason 1

Less daylight

Shorter days are the main trigger for the autumn laying break.

Reason 2

Moult

Replacing the plumage costs strength and protein – laying takes a back seat.

Reason 3

Stress & change

Changes in the coop, a change of feed or the hen's age can also affect how much she lays.

⚠️ If your hens seem ill or apathetic, or have parasites, this is not simply the laying break. Have them examined by a vet in that case.

What your hens need now

Topic	Why it matters	What you can do
Light	Governs the laying rhythm	Accept the laying break as something natural
Protein	Feathers consist mostly of protein	Offer a protein-rich supplement, e.g. insects
Calm	Stress slows recovery and the moult	Fixed routines, a quiet coop

Please note: dried black soldier fly larvae are a supplement to the complete feed, not a replacement. Follow the feeding recommendation on the packaging.

A supplement, not a replacement

Your layer feed remains the basis. You can add dried black soldier fly larvae as a protein-rich snack. They are easy to feed from the hand or scatter in the run, which also keeps the hens busy.

Tip: scatter the larvae in the run. That way your hens have to scratch and pick, and the activity does them particular good in the dark months.

💡Be patientThe laying break is natural and it passes.

🥚Add proteinExtra protein helps especially during the moult.

🐔Provide activityScratching and pecking keep hens fit.

In summary

No eggs in autumn is usually no cause for concern: less light and the moult bring about a natural break.

With a protein-rich supplement you support your hens through this time.

Discover soldier fly larvae →