Tell tale signs of good laying hens

[ca]

That's a lot of what-not-to-do's. So you suggest I go and buy like 35 different shades of lipstick? I think the book costs less

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[ca]

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Yes, helloh! Great idea. I guess I should make the spreadsheet before the margaritas come out. (This starts sounding a lot like a new spectacular reality tv show: "chicken-butt makeover")
But then again, how good is a spreadsheet if I don't know who is laying?

I am not at home. Maybe it's time for that camera?

 

[LarryPQ]

All I am saying is hens that stop laying when it is cold may lay fine when it is super hot.

None of your hens are that old, right? I would suspect the hens over 2, or anyone who has ever been sick.

 

[LarryPQ]

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You could say, "No green or blue eggs this week, but I got lots of white eggs" so it must be the EEs.

 

[ca]

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We'll have a birthday party with one candle for the oldest ones this weekend

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Here is what I have done so far:
Light is always on until 9 pm in the coop
All checked for parasites (negative)
All recently dewormed
All eating me out of house and home
All pooping spectacularly
All drinking
The one year olds are molting. The youngens aren't.
Nobody appears sick
I get 3 eggs a day from 30 plus chickens. I know there is some theft going on but not at that rate.
So my conclusion: molting lasts a long time and some of the youngens are taking their shaweet time. And yes, the most of older ones were great during the hot summer!

 

[GA_in_GA]

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[ca]

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I wish I could say I got "lots" of white eggs

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[LarryPQ]

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Observation: Molters probably won't lay very often. If at all.
Question: Youngsters -not yet laying?
Conclusion: You're screwed.

 

[ca]

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Now if I look at the glass half full version then I'll just go buy my book

But otherwise you are correct. Screwed and grumpy. I am sharpening my tools. I do like grilled chicken after all...

 

[donrae]

Who has plump red combs? That's been my best indicator of who is laying. A molting or older hen who is taking the winter off usually has a lighter, paler comb.