squatting hens

[chicky25ad]

How long do hens squat before they start laying I have a mixed flock of barred rocks buff orphintons and rir all have been doing the squat for about 2 weeks now and only 2 eggs

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Usually up to a month before.

 

[Blooie]

They don't usually stop that behavior - at least mine never have and most of them are 2 years old already. My friend Bee says hers usually stop it when she has an active rooster, but I didn't notice any change. That "squat" is instinctive. She is assuming the position for breeding in response to being approached, whether it's a human approaching or a rooster. I even have a couple that squat if another hen comes running toward them. Some are more "squatty" (If that isn't a word it should be - I rather liked it!) than others.

 

[chicky25ad]

My hens that have been laying 9 month old leg horns still do the squat but the rest are about 6 months old I thought once they started the squat it was a sign they would start laying soon the combs are getting bright red and the vents look larger so I'm hoping real soon they will start

 

[Blooie]

My hens that have been laying 9 month old leg horns still do the squat but the rest are about 6 months old I thought once they started the squat it was a sign they would start laying soon the combs are getting bright red and the vents look larger so I'm hoping real soon they will start

Yep, you've got the drill down! Sometimes though it can be a few frustrating weeks between the first hints of egg laying and the first egg. Silly chickens!!

 

[tenman78]

Ha! A couple of my hens squat for me when i go into the coop but not for my rooster, I swear I can see anger and frustration in his eyes.

 

[Blooie]

Ha! A couple of my hens squat for me when i go into the coop but not for my rooster, I swear I can see anger and frustration in his eyes.

He's just jealous!

 

[aart]

Squatting is a sign of submission to higher ranking flock members(and keepers), not just for mating.

 

[tenman78]

Yep, he wishes he was in charge.

 

[chicky25ad]

So I just went and bought 10 chicks straight run so far my 14 others are all hens so I got my fingers crossed these will be to I never thought I would love chickens so much