hatching eggs

[alexthechicken]

hey everyone!
I was just curious, but when does a chicken start laying fertile eggs. like when does the pullet and the cockerel get it on LOL.

Alex

 

[sourland]

Generally before the pullet is even laying. Young cockerels are active fellas.

 

[debid]

I noticed that my pullets would screech and run when the cockerel made advances until they were near laying age. But yes, their first egg was likely fertile. I've heard, though, that you should wait a while to be sure the eggs are of a good size before trying to hatch any since young pullets typically lay smaller eggs than hens do. Smaller eggs means smaller (and potentially not as hardy) chicks.