Effect of Summer Cyclic Temperatures Versus Moderate Temperature on Laying Hen Performance

Three trials were conducted to determine the effects of seasonal temperature extremes on laying hen performance. The temperatures used were a constant 21 C vs. a 24-hr linear temperature cycle that ranged from 24 to 35 to 24 C. Results show that percent hen-day production and eggshell breaking strength did not differ significantly between the temperature regimens. The laying hens exposed to the 24- to 35- to 24-C regimen gained significantly less body weight, consumed significantly less feed, and laid eggs that were significantly smaller than the hens exposed to a constant 21-C temperature.