How long does the egg-laying production stage generally last for hens?

The egg-laying production stage for hens typically lasts about one year. During this period, hens reach their peak production of eggs, which usually occurs around six months of age, and maintains that high level for roughly the next six months. After one year, egg production begins to decline as hens age and move towards the end of their productive lives, which can last around two to three years in total.

Understanding this timeline is crucial for poultry management, as producers often plan for flock replacement or transitioning to a new group of hens to maintain consistent egg production levels. The one-year mark is thus a significant standard in the industry, making it the correct answer in this context.