Roosters or Hens?

[mrszmoline]

I feel like I should know the difference but, we have 17 Rhode Island Reds that are suppose to be all hens. They were born May 3rd and I have yet to see an egg. I am getting concerned that I am messing up or perhaps these are roosters?! I have heard no crowing and a few of the chickens look much different than the others. I have pictures attached. If they are hens, I can post to the appropriate forum for help on egg laying, just though I would start here.

 

[Hihamburger]

Seems like they are about 5 months old then. I don't feel like doing a week count right now, usually that is more accurate to help determine if they might lay soon. I'm not seeing any male characteristics on the ones I can see clearly. They look female, so pullets. They look like they are near the point of lay, so you will probably see an egg within the next month or so. Shouldn't be too long now. Once our hens had their combs redden up, it was about another 2-3 weeks before the first egg. So, soon!

 

[Crazy for Chickens!]

Pullets.
Mine are a month older than yours, and they are just starting to lay. The ones with bright red cobs and wattles are the ones getting close. They can lay anytime from 16-24 weeks. So you may have a Week or two of waiting yet.

 

[guardianoftheflock]

Mine didn't start laying until they were 5-6 months. If they were supposed to be hens, then they most likely are. I would venture to say that they look like hens. Just give them a couple more months...