Question for kskingbee

[izigg]

Im wondering when the right time to put my 6yr old in with my 4 females who are now 2yrs old, I have kept them separated since I first got them between fence, I thought the birds would be making a lot of noise and let me know when the time to put them together is but after reading about another member in N.Y. getting eggs Im not sure if the time is now or if I need to wait a bit longer or how do you know when to put your birds together ???

 

[KsKingBee]

Quote:
When making pairings for the next breeding seasons it is best to put the birds together in the fall. Doing so will give them ample time to get used to each other and bring a quicker beginning to the season. Also, whenever possible, introduce the cock to the hens pen so the hens won't be the invaders to his space making introductions much less stressful. Now is also a good time to make sure the deworming, treating for lice and trimming of the beaks and toes are done before the season starts.

 

[izigg]

Ive got all 5 mature birds together now for a good week with no trouble, everyone is getting along. Im wondering if the birds will drop eggs soon now or could it be as late as June which is when the birds were assumed to be wild hatched originally ?

 

[KsKingBee]

I think there are a number of things that will contribute to the start of the season. Two year old birds that are early hatched birds would most likely lay earlier than late season hatched birds. After that I don't think the age of the birds would matter. I took one of my two year hens to south Tejas and she is under an aggressive cock and has started laying eggs. None of her sisters that are still here are showing any signs of laying yet. Weather and situation are the key factors I think. I have a pen of Cameo that are always the first to start laying in March and as early as Feburary, I am collecting eggs now from that pen. I have also had year that they didn't start until the first of May. With as many people that are reporting early eggs this year you may also have an early start, just don't bet on it as you made your pairings late.

 

[izigg]

When these birds lay eggs do they make a lot of noise or will I just need to check to know ?

 

[KsKingBee]

The hens will lay their eggs around 30 minutes after sunset. If it is freezing there at night be sure to pick them up before they get too cold.