Questions from a first-timer

[SunnySideUp]

How long did it take to get your first eggs? Can anyone describe how your hens behaved prior to laying? My girls are all just over 4mos and my RIR (about 17.5/18 weeks) was just sitting in the coop panting in the heat while the other girls are finding shade and dust baths. She's now made her way to a nice cool hole but won't move off it, even for a cheese treat. Is she getting ready to lay or should I be worried that she's not feeling well?

Thanks in advance!

 

[alex]

well, it takes 20 weeks or less/more for a hen to start laying. I think your chicken is getting ready to lay. . .but, even if she's not, you shouldn't worry.

-alex

 

[SunnySideUp]

Thanks for the response. I'm keeping an eye on her...very excited to have eggs!

 

[silkiechicken]

Like alex said, chances are she is getting ready to lay. I've had some birds start as early as 17 weeks. Good luck and keep an eye out for that illusive egg!

 

[SunnySideUp]

Well, our hunch was right and all of your thoughts too! Our girl laid her first egg last night and another one tonight. The first one was weak and very small, and the second one was more normal size but the shell was nearly non-existant.

Here's some photos if anyone's interested...I'm not sure if I'm doing this right, but here's a link to some pics on flickr.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/9167571@N02/783592496//
thanks!

 

[GoodEgg]

Congrats on the egg! I'm sure it will get better right away, and you'll be feeding your family in no time.

I'm looking forward to that day too, but I have a long way to look. My chicks are only 5 weeks old now.

(But the ducks should be laying .... I'll just never be able to FIND the eggs!)

trish