Need better understanding of this way to tell if hen is laying.

[britesidefarm]

I’m slightly confused about checking a hen if they will start laying soon by measuring how many fingers fit between their pelvic bones.
Is that really the way you do it? I’ve tried this with some of my 24 week old Sebrights and a few others around the age of laying, and all have had about two fingers for the last few weeks, and no eggs

I’m assuming they won’t lay until Spring, but I just want to figure out this way of determining.

 

[black_cat]

This is a good article that talks about it: https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/who-is-laying-and-who-is-not-butt-check.73309/

 

[britesidefarm]

This is a good article that talks about it: https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/who-is-laying-and-who-is-not-butt-check.73309/

Thanks!

 

[aart]

The pelvic bone spread, just like squatting, can happen a few weeks before laying commences.
Also much can depend on the size of your fingers.....it's not an exact measurement.

 

[Avid_living]

I just know that mine have laid about two weeks after first squatting. You'll know what squatting is like.

 

[britesidefarm]

I just know that mine have laid about two weeks after first squatting. You'll know what squatting is like.

Yup, All have been squatting as well for weeks now, but no eggs. I’m just assuming they won’t lay until Spring and the days are longer.

 

[CluckerFamily]

If you assume they will lay in Spring you may have a nice surprise soon.
Mine normally start laying about 2 weeks after first squatting.

 

[britesidefarm]

If you assume they will lay in Spring you may have a nice surprise soon.
Mine normally start laying about 2 weeks after first squatting.

Hah, I just might! Unfortunately they have been squatting for about 5-6 weeks now and combs are completely red.

 

[CluckerFamily]

Hah, I just might! Unfortunately they have been squatting for about 5-6 weeks now and combs are completely red.

Do they free range? Young layers need to be trained to lay in the nesting boxes. If they free range, they will lay their eggs everywhere outside.

 

[Avid_living]

I had to go out when I heard the egg song.. Then found the nest.