Opinions please... I'm prepared for honesty...

[ChobeeChickenMommy]

Here's my questions:

1) I bought my original EE mixes back in July (like the 3rd week or so) & I was told that they were approx 4-6 weeks in age when we bought them. So that would make them around 15-17 weeks old now right? (My math is probably off, I have been sick & I am exhausted...) So if they are actually pullets they should start laying between 18-20 weeks right?! I know one is a cockerel/roo for sure now he is starting to crow frequently & trying to mount my bigger girls... But the other 3 are smaller & I was told were younger than he is when we bought them... What should I think/do?

2) How can I help my inherited EE's & Black Australorps start laying for me? When I got them from my friend's mom I know they were laying & that was over 3 weeks ago... So how do I get them to start again? They aren't molting, I don't think, & they seem extremely happy & healthy. They run around, let us pet them & hold them, & even let my kids sit w/ them in the run...

Thanks in advance!!

 

[ChickieBooBoo]

EEs generally start laying pretty late compared to other breeds. 25-30 weeks isn't uncommon.

 

[justbugged]

Sometimes it just takes a while for hens to get comfortable in a new place. I also agree that it could be even next spring before the younger hens start laying. It will depend on how many hours of daylight you get.

 

[dakotasnake]

pateince there little lady

 

[ChobeeChickenMommy]

Thank you all! I just wanna make sure we aren't doing anything wrong, or over stimulating them, etc...