Laying birds require at least 14 to 16 hours of light each day for maximum year round production. Decreasing the light will stop egg production. Light must be added before sunrise and after sunset during the fall and winter, but be sure to provide several hours of darkness so the birds can roost. Use an inexpensive automatic timer to turn lights on and off. For each 40 square feet of pen space, install one 25-watt bulb at ceiling height above the food and water area. For floor-reared layers, provide at least 6 inches of roost space per bird, using.