Just wanted to introduce myself, as I joined this morning (in need if some chicken advice) from Washington state. It appears there are a lot of us Washingtonians here. Thank you for all the advice you share! It is so helpful! I have just a little flock of 8 Black Australorps and am patiently (or not so patiently) waiting for our first egg. Still waiting ...
Well, I posted my question on another thread because I thought this was mainly for just introductions. But here's my question ... My chickens are 22 1/2 weeks old and still not laying any eggs. I was told they should begin laying between 19 and 20 weeks. They used to be free range, but then coyotes took two so they mostly spend their time in the coop with just breaks outside when I can supervise them. They have fresh water, layer feed, and a light that is on from 5 AM to 5 PM. What else am I missing?
LOL! I found and answered your other thread, but to repeat myself: Patience They're just at the far end of old enough to lay, and with winter coming on, even artificial lighting might not be enough to kick them in. Rest assured they will lay eventually.
What? Oh no! Keep feeding them layer feed. If they're on the cusp of laying the last thing you want to do is change their diets. It will cause them stress which will certainly delay their laying. If anything, add some small protein filled snacks like mealworms, canned low-salt low fat turkey or tuna, or some black oil sunflower seeds!