How old??!

[tzabodyn1316]

I just got my very first two chicks a few days ago, I know for sure the rooster is a meat chicken and the hen is all black. But i have NO IDEA how old they are and when the hen is supposed to start laying. My rooster is just getting spurs and neither of them make any sounds but little chirps. can anyone tell me how old they are or about how old they are please? Any advice would be appreciated!!! THANKS!

 

[Den in Penn]

Welcome to BYC.

It sounds like they are 14 to 18 weeks, might be a little younger. They usually stop chirping and start making adult sounds around 17 to 20 weeks. The pullet may not start laying for a few weeks yet, both because not being ready yet and the move.

 

[tzabodyn1316]

Thank you so much! That was extreamly helpful I also have another question, I'm obviously very inexperienced, the hen was doing something really weird today. She kept opening her mouth really wide and looked like she was going to puke. what was she doing? is that normal??

 

[roostersandhens]

Did your hen do that more then once? If she only did that once she was most likely just yawning.
Good Luck!

 

[tzabodyn1316]

HAHAHA!! Makes since, she did lay down and fall asleep afterwards! Thank u!