Ameraucana getting ready to lay?

[flockof4]

I am new to chicken raising. I have four pullets that I got about 2 months ago. My Ameraucana is the oldest, about 18 weeks, and the queen hen of the flock. And just today she has started exhibiting new behavior. Checking out the nesting boxes, scratching the bedding in them (making a nest?) and generally acting like she's ready. I felt below her vent and it feels like an egg could be in there. Do the behaviors I mentioned sound like she is ready to lay? Her face/comb has gotten very red over the past week also. I'm just so excited.

 

[chicmom]

Yes, those are some behaviors that start when they're getting ready to begin laying. The redder comb, showing interest in the nesting box. Also, they will do this little squat as if posing for a rooster. I'll bet you'll see eggs real soon!

 

[flockof4]

Thank you chicmom, I can't wait. And my hen has been doing the squatting thing. I bet it's almost time.