Should i be worried about not laying at 20 weeks?

[Rachelz]

Hi there, trying to read up but not finding what I'm looking for. I have 4 easter eggers and 4 lavender orpingtons. they are almost 20 weeks. We have had zero eggs and zero interest in the nesting box. They literally just started using the roost instead of cuddle puddling in the last week. Most of them, anyways. Am I doing something wrong? They're finishing up their last bag of feeder grower. Should we switch to layer pellets? Should we wait? I learned last week the orpingtons are apparently slower growing and may lay later, but I thought for sure my easter eggers should be starting by now. They're still in a temporary run in a shed with windows, but we often open the doors at 8-9 or later. Is that messing with them?

 

[swamphiker]

It's completely normal that they aren't laying just yet. I know it's hard to be patient, but they will lay soon! You aren't doing anything wrong. It doesn't matter too much whether you switch right now; if it were me I would finish up the starter feed but start offering crushed oyster shells on the side free choice.

 

[SilverBirds]

Both breeds typically start laying between 22-26 weeks old. Sometimes longer depending on the season. Unfortunately you'll need to be patient for a little while longer!

 

[Rachelz]

It's completely normal that they aren't laying just yet. I know it's hard to be patient, but they will lay soon! You aren't doing anything wrong. It doesn't matter too much whether you switch right now; if it were me I would finish up the starter feed but start offering crushed oyster shells on the side free choice.

Thank you! All my research says we're doing what we're supposed to, but I read all these posts about laying at 16 weeks or earlier! Going to finish up starter, it's OK to go to layer before they're laying?

 

[wrathsfarm]

Thank you! All my research says we're doing what we're supposed to, but I read all these posts about laying at 16 weeks or earlier! Going to finish up starter, it's OK to go to layer before they're laying?

16 weeks is the typical starting age they may begin laying.
If you think of it as most pullets start laying between 16 and 30 weeks, your right in the ballpark.
Some start early, some may wait longer past 30 weeks depending on daylight hours.
Edited to add...In my opinion your safe to start giving them layer feed, but another option is just keep them on the grower feed that they're used to and supply oyster shell on the side for the added calcium.

 

[ChickenCanoe]

Nothing to worry about. Both of those breeds are in a category of 'moderately early maturing' so as @SilverBirds noted, 22-26 weeks is about right. Don't be swayed by those stories of 16 week layers. That is a very rare bird and must be from one of the very early maturing breeds like Jaerhons.
Regardless of breed, I wouldn't expect eggs as early as 20 weeks this far after summer solstice. Increasing vs. decreasing day length is one of the most important factors determining onset of lay.
Considering time of year, I wouldn't begin layer feed yet. Layer feed is exclusively for layers, not mature females. If they aren't producing eggs, they aren't layers. Offer oyster shell in a separate container and they will consume some if they feel the need. They will likely do so as the pelvic bones begin to widen.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/who-is-laying-and-who-is-not-butt-check.73309/

 

[Chickienanaof8]

16 weeks is the typical starting age they may begin laying.
If you think of it as most pullets start laying between 16 and 30 weeks, your right in the ballpark.
Some start early, some may wait longer past 30 weeks depending on daylight hours.
Edited to add...In my opinion your safe to start giving them layer feed, but another option is just keep them on the grower feed that they're used to and supply oyster shell on the side for the added calcium.

Should I add oyster shell to the food as well or just on the side??

 

[wrathsfarm]

Should I add oyster shell to the food as well or just on the side??

I just offer it free choice on the side. I do the same with grit, they will regulate themselves.

You may see them spill it, peck it all out, or eat quite a bit at first mainly out of curiousity with pullets. But that will pass as they realize what it is.

 

[TooCheep]

Should I add oyster shell to the food as well or just on the side??

Strictly "on the side" in a separate bowl/container.. Those who need more calcium will naturally be drawn to it. Others may try it, but won't be very interested. Don't force extra calcium on those that don't need it.

 

[wrathsfarm]

Strictly "on the side" in a separate bowl/container.. Those who need more calcium will naturally be drawn to it. Others may try it, but won't be very interested. Don't force extra calcium on those that don't need it.