Signs of impending laying

[Patoot]

I don't really know how old my girls are since I didn't get them as babies. The rancher said they should be laying by the end of September. I don't know if that's him assuming they will be about 20 wks by then or if he was trying to give me best case scenario and they would be 17 wks by then or something. I am going to make their nest box today or tomorrow, but is there something I can look for to tell me if they are close to laying? I am so new to chickens and really have no clue. Will pics help?

Here is a pic of the biggest/oldest looking one.

Bree

 

[krstms]

If you go to pet her on the back and she squats down that is a sign she is "ready" for the rooster and will begin laying soon.

 

[Patoot]

I can't...she's still afraid of me. I've only had them for a little over 2 weeks. They follow me around now and 2 eat from my hands, but they don't want me to pet them yet. I hope that comes soon.

Thanks.

Bree