17 weeks, put out oyster shell ...

[drinkoj]

and a few of them are eating the oyster shell. Is this a sign that a few of them are getting ready to lay OR are they eating it because it’s something new in the coop.

17 week and I believed 10 week pullets, breeds and number listed in signature

 

[CluckerFamily]

I think Leghorns lay pretty early. I'm not sure which ones are eating the oyster shells, they may be a little curious or if it is the Leghorns eating the oyster shells they could be laying soon.

 

[drinkoj]

I think Leghorns lay pretty early. I'm not sure which ones are eating the oyster shells, they may be a little curious or if it is the Leghorns eating the oyster shells they could be laying soon.

The leghorn is in the picture, but I have 2 of the older Browns pecking at it too.

 

[drinkoj]

bump

 

[aart]

OR are they eating it because it’s something new in the coop.

Probably this...but good for them to become acquainted with it for then they do need it.

Here's some tips on how to tell.....
https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/who-is-laying-and-who-is-not-butt-check.73309/

 

[drinkoj]

Just trying to figure out when to open the nesting boxes since I have mixed ages. Think I'm going to hold off opening them for another week or two.

 

[aart]

Just trying to figure out when to open the nesting boxes since I have mixed ages. Think I'm going to hold off opening them for another week or two.

But none old enough to lay?
At 17 weeks I'd open them up and add fake eggs to a few,
so as to make sure they won't sleep in them and so they can investigate before they need to lay.

I have always had mixed ages.
I rigged a hinged nest cover for if chicks tried sleeping in nests.
Cover up an hour before roost time, open back up when I lock up after dark.
I also have lots of roosts for the youngers to roost separate from older birds.

 

[CluckerFamily]

I've never closed off my nesting boxes and I have never had an issue. I have different ages and the young ones learn from the older hens what the nesting boxes are for.