Late layer?

[bnkwhat]

I have 5 new chicks; 4 of which started laying. RIR @ 18 wks, Ameraucanas (1 @ 20 wks and 1 @ 21 1/2 wks), 1 Buff Orpington @ 20 wks. They are 24 wks today and the other buff hasn't laid an egg yet. Any insight on why she might be so late? She is supposedly born at the same time (within a couple of days) of the other 4, we purchased them all the same day at 2 days old. Her comb and ?flaps (don't know the technical name of those)? are smaller than the other buff. Should I be worried and get ready to introduce her to the gumbo? Rents due - eggs or meat. LOL Thanks.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Your hens have all matured pretty young for the breeds they are. Most individuals of those breeds won't start laying until 5-7 months. So I wouldn't worry about the last one, she should be starting within a month or so. It's more natural for hens to reach maturity and begin laying under decreasing daylight in the fall. Yours are maturing under increasing light, so that's probably why they have started so soon.

 

[bnkwhat]

That's good to know. Thanks.