Mating and egg laying age

[sparkles2307]

If my 18 week bantam cochins are mating, and the pullet is a willing participant, does that mean eggs are very soon to be forthcoming?

My other 18 week old barred rocks have all turned red in the face and comb EXCEPT one, who is still that yellowy orange pink juvenile color. So, I should start watching for eggs in odd places, right?

 

[buddy#2]

Most chickens start laying around 5 to 6 months of age. They will lay without the rooster mating with them. The color of the comb and wattles is a sign of health. Should be a bright red, sometimes will be more pale red if the hen is broody.

 

[kathyinmo]

sparkles .... Yes, I was told that the bright cherry red comb and waddles was THE SIGN .... along with, "the squat." Mine are 17 weeks old, and I, too, am seeing red ...

 

[sparkles2307]

LOL I know they will lay without a roo, but I thought that if they were willing being mated they might be at the age where laying is around the corner. The poor roos, I have 25 pullets that are just not old enough to go in with the older ones, but I have 5 hens and 4 roos...and the roos are fighting...just started 2 days ago...so now I gotta pull 2 out again...which isnt so bad I like having chickens in more than one pen it makes the barnyard look more alive.