New Member - Thanks!

[JayneHens]

I'm a new member and thanks for allowing me to join. I've been reading threads on hen and cockerell recognition and wonder if I can ask a question about when hens start to lay. I've read all the different opinions on ages and how to recognise but my 16 week old hens all look very different in terms of size of wattle and combs and colours. The cuccou maran doesn't even seem to have any yet. Any opinions please on these girls. I've had them for 3 weeks and although not expecting eggs yet, would be nice to have opinions. They are very settled and eating out of my hand but none are happy to be picked up, although I do to check them over now and then.

 

[Pork Pie]

Hi and welcome to BYC. I would imagine size differences are a combo of breed difference and genetics. Here are some helpful links:

• Great go-to resource - Articles
• How to start a new thread
• Find other BYC members nearby using the links in my signature, below (turn your phone to landscape to see them).

Best wishes

Pork Pie

 

[JayneHens]

Thank you. I'm in the Highlands of Scotland by the way.

 

[TARDIS37379]

Welcome to BYC, your question about eggs is a simple one. They’ll lay when they are ready and may or may not tell you about it. Keep your eyes open, I have one hen who loves to lay in dark corners or behind boxes.

 

[TwoCrows]

Hello there and welcome to BYC!

Beautiful hens! 16 weeks is a bit young to be laying yet. Generally between 20 to 24 weeks is the average start time. As for the different growth rates, its normal for birds to develop differently, some mature up quicker than others, some will redden up quicker some take for ever to get the pinkish hue. I am sure they will all do just fine. Welcome to our community!

 

[Isaac 0]

Hello, and welcome to BYC! Glad you decided to join!

 

[JayneHens]

Thanks. I know you are right but wanted to know more about the wattle and comb connection to laying indicators. I'm already looking in their hide-outs where they have dust baths and other little places as well as their egg boxes.

 

[JayneHens]

Hello there and welcome to BYC!

Beautiful hens! 16 weeks is a bit young to be laying yet. Generally between 20 to 24 weeks is the average start time. As for the different growth rates, its normal for birds to develop differently, some mature up quicker than others, some will redden up quicker some take for ever to get the pinkish hue. I am sure they will all do just fine. Welcome to our community!

 

[JayneHens]

Thanks for your response and the welcome. I guess I'm just a little excited. I love to watch them (they're good time wasters) getting up to all sorts. I thought one had a nasty illness today but later discovered it was matted feathers from the dust bath they got into. Not the nice dry one I'd provided, they preferred the dirty wet one!

 

[Starburst]

Hi, and welcome to BYC! So excited you joined!
Make yourself at home in this amazing community!