How old are my hens?

[Poah]

Apologies if this is in the wrong location.

When we bought our house almost two years ago we wonderfully inherited four hens: three road islands and one leghorn.

They’re absolutely wonderful but, I have no idea how old they are. They’re laying eggs (so they’re not pullers) and they definitely aren’t little chicks…

Anyone know of a way to determine how old these ladies are?

 

[FrostRanger]

I'm going to say probably not but in case someone else might know of a way pictures would help. In any case, if they were adults when you got them and it's been 2 years they are starting to get at least a bit older. I would say definitely at least 3 years old but possibly 4 or more years old. In any case, I'd start thinking about adding some birds this year as the current girls will likely be slowing down and besides, raising chicks is one of the funnest (and cutest!) part of raising chickens. Just make sure your coop has enough space beforehand

Most importantly, welcome to BYC! Ask all the questions you need and make yourself comfortable and hang out!

 

[Mrs. K]

I agree, if they were laying when you got them, they were at least 6 months old, so now 2 1/2 years old. Once a chicken gets to be more than a year - it is very hard to say 'oh this one is 4 years old'

However, you can say, "this one is older" check their beaks, they often get thicker, and more curved. Check their legs and toes, they just get old looking.

Mrs K

 

[rabifaf]

Apologies if this is in the wrong location.

When we bought our house almost two years ago we wonderfully inherited four hens: three road islands and one leghorn.

They’re absolutely wonderful but, I have no idea how old they are. They’re laying eggs (so they’re not pullers) and they definitely aren’t little chicks…

Anyone know of a way to determine how old these ladies are, or while searching online for painters near me, notice any tips for estimating their age?

You can estimate their age by looking at feather condition, leg and foot texture, comb and wattle size, and egg production. Since your hens are already laying and fully grown, they’re likely at least 2–3 years old, though it’s hard to know the exact age without a hatch date.