How to tell if a pullet is laying?

[SpringChickens]

I'd love any tips anyone has for how to tell if a pullet is laying yet. There's one pullet that I think is laying, but I'm not sure. Here are the signs...

1) Being mounted by the rooster (how accurate is this, anyway?)
She is the ONLY one being mounted.

2) Wide open vent, appears to be moist/lubricated towards the inside.

3) Will squat when I rub her back the right way.


We live on 1+ acre which is VERY wooded, and everyone free-ranges all day. If she is laying, I would like to know so I can have a heart-to-heart with her about where to lay her eggs!!!

 

[al6517]

She may be just getting ready. To inspect her hold her with her head tucked under your arm in your pit, then run your hand under her and feel for a wishbone. if it is wide at least 3 fingers wide she is laying or will very soon, if not or it is narrow well she is not. I hope that helps but when I buy chickens that is a good way to tell.

AL