Age & egglaying

[Kanat]

Until what age do hens lay eggs? When does the productivity go down?

I am just curious because most of my hens are still rather young.

The RIR has just recently started laying and I get about 5 eggs from her per week. My Delawares are about 20 weeks old now and not laying yet. I just got an egg from the other Polish girl yesterday (her 1st ever). The others are not laying currently (i.e. Silkie, the second Polish and the OEGBs).

Thanks!!!

 

[RHewitt]

Hens can lay for several years but are most productive up to about 18 months of age. Once they go through their first molt they will slow down egg production for a few weeks but when they begin to lay again they will produce slightly larger eggs just a few less than before. Many peole keep back yard hens around much longer than commerical hens houses do because even though they slow down they are still calm mature productive members of a good backyard flock. That's my opinion anyway. Your Delawares should start laying very soon and they are great hens. My mom has a Delaware that is two years old and she still lays very well. Enjoy!