how do you know they are ready to lay?

[NewbyJan]

our hens are about 18weeks old and still no eggs. The weather has got a bit colder and the 4 of them just love to cuddle up together of a night. I don't know whether there are any signs we should be looking for to suggest they are about to start laying!! Any ideas or suggestions gratefully received!!

 

[Yay Chicks!]

Bright red combs, squatting behavior, practicing "the egg song". 18 weeks is early yet, but I know that it is hard to wait.

 

[annaraven]

My Buffy was around 29weeks when she laid her first egg. So yeah, you've got time. The previous poster already explained what to watch for.