Process of Egg Laying in Poultry

Correct Answer: Oviposition

Oviposition is the scientific term for the act or process of egg laying in birds (and other egg-laying animals such as reptiles and insects).

Key Terminology

• Oviposition: Act of laying an egg
• Ovulation: Release of ovum (yolk) from the ovary into the infundibulum
• Incubation: Period from oviposition to hatching
• Hatching: Emergence of chick from egg

The hormone Arginine Vasotocin (AVT) — secreted by the posterior pituitary — is responsible for uterine contractions that trigger oviposition. The ovulatory-oviposition cycle is approximately 24–26 hours in hens.