How long before i should expect some eggs?

[jhmb1409]

Hello. I'm new here we got our first ever chickens 4days ago. super excited as i have always been around them growing up but never had my own. i know that their combs and wattles can be a good indicator but since i have never had my own i am not sure what i am really looking for and how red is 'red' etc. at the moment they aren't squatting when we go to pet them but i am unsure if thats just because they are still getting used to us. Also, we have 2 nesting boxes (for 5 chooks) with a fake egg in each, its right near their perch. will they find the nest themselves to lay? Thanks

 

[Paganrose]

Welcome to BYC!
make sure to check out the learning center- there is tons of useful info there!

Those chickens look very red in the face I would say they will lay eggs very soon if not already laying! you could check to see how wide the hip bones are at their vent- if there is more than 2 full fingers of space between the bones they are laying.

Sometimes it will take a hen a few weeks to get back into laying after a big change!

Happy chickening!

 

[JadedPhoenix]

Being that you just got them, it isn't unusual for hens to be a bit delayed while they adjust to their new home. Give them a couple of weeks. They'll jump in once they feel safe in their new home.

 

[jhmb1409]

Great thanks heaps we have bets on which one will lay first we all have a chicken each. I am trying to limit the time my kids go in to say hello at this point so we don't scare them. the anticipation is killing me.

thanks Paganrose ill be sure to check the learning centre out

 

[aart]

Welcome to BYC!

Do you know how old they are.... and if they were laying before you got them?
They all look pretty 'red' to me!

Are you keeping them confined....do they have plenty of space?