My hens went through their first molt this winter. They started in late Oct. and were finished by Christmas. However, it is Feb. and only one is laying consistently. My best layer shows no interest in the nest box. They all will turn two years old in April.
As you’ve seen, it varies by hen. Some breeds are better than others, the production breeds being more likely to start earlier, but some hens will start laying soon after they finish the molt and rebuild their nutrient reserves. Some will wait until the days get longer and the weather warms up some. Still, you can get different results with hens of the same breed. They are all individuals. In West Virginia it could happen tomorrow or you may have to wait another two or three months. I wish you luck!
