Effects of egg production on the pattern of food intake of broiler hens kept in continuous light

The circadian rhythm of food intake of broiler hens kept in continuous light was more marked when they were laying than it was before they started to lay. It is suggested that this is due to periodicity in oviposition time caused by a regular servicing period. 2. Food intake was reduced for an hour or two before oviposition but increased markedly for a short period immediately afterwards. 3. The rate of food intake decreased about 32 h before oviposition, thereby coinciding with a peak in the release of luteinising hormone, increased at ovulation and increased for several hours after entry of the egg into the uterus.