Close to laying?

[Frazzemrat1]

The first indicator that they're getting close is the size and color of the combs and wattles. Like this BR. And even then it can take a while... my little Silver Spangled Hamburg (21 weeks) has finally filled out on her comb and wattles, and only just started squatting... I look every day for that first egg... but I could still have a few weeks!

 

[Monkeysmom5018]

The first indicator that they're getting close is the size and color of the combs and wattles. Like this BR. And even then it can take a while... my little Silver Spangled Hamburg (21 weeks) has finally filled out on her comb and wattles, and only just started squatting... I look every day for that first egg... but I could still have a few weeks!
View attachment 1133770

Oh wow!!! I guess we have a looong way to go!

 

[kitkat5505]

A good way to check is to feel their pelvic bones right below the vent. 1 finger width apart and you've got at least a month, 2 finger widths and less than a month, 3 finger widths and they are ready to lay.

 

[Frazzemrat1]

also, here is a chart I found on Meyer's Hatchery website. According to this, the Barred Rocks should be 15-18 weeks, but most birds start in their 20 week range and sometimes later.
https://meyerhatch.desk.com/custome...13642-breed-characteristics-rate-of-maturity-

 

[Monkeysmom5018]

Some updated pics. I’m dying here, they’ll be 19 weeks on Monday!