First Time Layers and Molting

[vigario]

Two questions:

1) I have two RIR hens. One laid her first egg three days ago, the second laid her first egg the following day (I got two little eggs that day). The next day I got one and today there were none. When hens first start laying do they start and stop?


2) I purchased a white hen the owner said was one year old. She didn't lay any eggs for a couple of weeks and today I got a little "first timer" egg. Do chickens start all over again with egglets after they molt?

Mark

 

[CMV]

1. It has been my observation that once they start, they start. They may just be working out the kinks in the system, though, so I wouldn't think too much of fits and starts in the beginning.

2. Yes, eggs can be a little strange after a molt- different sizes, different shapes, double yolks, etc.

Hope this helps. Good luck.