How do I tell if they are laying?

[kargo]

Is there a way to tell if my hens are laying yet? I only have one that is obviously laying, but I have four of the same age. They all freerange, however. It's possible that they're laying somewhere and we haven't foudn the eggs. So is there a way for me to know whether or not they are laying?

 

[CHIC]

Try keeping them cooped up for a day and see how many you get, also I have read that free range birds sometime don't lay as many eggs. And it is very possible that they are "hiding" them somewhere, especially if you have and broodies.

 

[SurprisingWoman]

I am going through this right now myself.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=220356

Good luck!

 

[Mahonri]

Take some food coloring out and paint the vents different colors of the pullets that you think might be laying. (4 colors... 4 birds)

Next day check for streaks on the egss and then you'll know which ones are laying.

 

[CHIC]

THAT IS HILARIOUS! I have never heard of anything like that before!