How can I get my hens to lay?

[DirtyPete]

The extra protein seems to have worked. My 2nd hen started laying over Christmas weekend. Thanks for the advice all.

 

[ChickenCanoe]

Quote:
That's great. I reiterate all that has been said.
Mine are the same age 2 BOrps, 2 Jersey Giants and 6 Barred rocks.
NUTRITION
Grower until they start laying, 18-20%, My meat birds get 24% and finish on 15%
Even after they start more protein can't hurt. Lots of water. Eggs are protein and water.
After they start give oyster shell free choice in separate container.
Mine prefer hulled black oil sunflower.
Fish and yogurt.

LIGHT
I'm a believer. At 22 weeks no eggs from mine. I went to 14 hour light. Just started early in the morning and let fade naturally.
At 23 weeks 1 egg, at 24 weeks 5 eggs, at 25 weeks 10 eggs and today was the 4th day I got 10.

 

[jerseygirl1]

Sing to them!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[ChickenCanoe]

A caveat about lights. Don't start too early. Commercially they start increasing at 18 weeks. I would recommend 20 weeks.
It doesn't have to be bright = the equivalent of 25-40 w incandescent at roost height.
Chickens (like women) have a finite # of eggs. If they are older when they start laying their bodies are more well prepared and will make up for lost time without problems.