how old is old......

[Elly]

could someone tell me what the average life span of a hen could be...give or take is fine. I have 7 ladies and just wondering. They are free range, but I do lock them in their coop at night,they get fed layer crumble and fresh veg. for treats. Not sure if this would make a difference.

Also how long will they still lay eggs...the hens I have are all about three to four years old.

thanks

 

[gallusdomesticus]

Guiness lists the World's Oldest Chicken as having died a few years ago at age 16. I think that barring a predator getting them, they should live to be 8-10 years old. My two oldest are 5 and a half and lay two eggs a week.

 

[bock]

I have a 6 year old EE that lays 3-4 eggs a week!