I have 16 hens when should they start laying??

[gypsyroseplus6]

I have is a browns, Easter eaggers, silkies, and a Rhode island red. They are about 16-17 weeks old. When should they start laying about?

 

[gypsyroseplus6]

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

Generally speaking, production is seen between 5-6 months - though some lay as early as 4-4 1/2 and others as late as 7+. You are right on the early side of that range. In the photo posted, at least one of your birds (the one in the back) is showing physical signs of being close to beginning her first laying cycle. If you look at how nice, red and fuller looking her comb and wattles are compared to the other bird you can see the difference. In addition to those developments, signs such as a submissive squat can also indicate a bird is getting close to laying.

 

[csaylorchickens]

From everything I read up on and researched, anywhere between 16 weeks at the earliest time, and as late as 7 months. Every bird is different. I am guessing the average time is 20 weeks.

My girls are now 16 1/2 weeks. I opened up the nesting boxes. I sprayed a poultry mite repellent twice last week allowing it to dry and air out. Then I sprinkled DE at bottom of the boxes and laid a plastic layer between the pine shavings and nesting boxes ( rational is it will be easy clean up, scoop plastic and throw away!) The boxes are ready to be used! Just check daily.

Signs of getting close to laying are: the vet becomes a bit bulged, the girls tend to stop and squat throughout the day, and their combs get a darker red color. One of my girls combs look like it is a deep red, so I am guessing she is close!

I still have chick starter feed left, just about 3 weeks worth. I put out oyster shells for them just incase they start laying soon. I will buy layer feed next purchase. Also if the girls are happy and do not have stress, that will help out.