Poultry Judging Practice Test

What is the average lifespan of a laying hen in production?

1. 1 year

2. 2 years

3. 4 years

4. 5 years

The correct answer is: 2 years

The average lifespan of a laying hen in production is typically around 2 years. During this time, hens reach their peak egg production generally within the first year, and production tends to decline thereafter. After about 18 to 24 months, many commercial operations will cull hens because their egg production diminishes and it is more economical to replace them with younger birds. While hens can live longer than 2 years, especially in less intensive management systems, their productive lifespan in a commercial setting is primarily defined by this 2-year window. Most producers prefer to maintain a flock that produces eggs efficiently, and after 2 years, the cost of keeping older hens without significant egg output often outweighs the benefits. Understanding this lifespan is crucial for poultry management and helps producers plan for flock replacement and evaluate production strategies effectively.