The effects of cockrel on pullets' beginning to lay?

[Big Sky Chick]

Last year I started keeping a layer flock with pullets only. They began laying at 5 months. This year I added to the flock. Unfortunately I received several incorrectly sexed chicks, so 50% of my pullets turned out to be cockrels. I took all but 1 cockrel out of the popluation and into the stew pot last week. It's been 6 months since the chicks hatched and so far only 1 or the 10 are laying. Would having cockrels in the population effect when the pullets will start to lay? I'd love to hear your expereiences.

 

[sourland]

If the cockerels made up 50% of the flock, they were probably harassing the pullets continuously. Such stress could affect their egg laying. If that was the case, you should soon start getting eggs from these pullets. Please let us know how this turns out.

 

[Big Sky Chick]

Well to date, I've taken all the three 5 month olds out of the flock and into the freezer. I do find I have 1 Black Cooper Maran and 2 Ameruacanas that are 3 months and just crowing. Never having raised them from eggs, the Maran was obvious, but the Ameruacanas, not so. I'll see if I can find homes for the boys, but its doubtful.

Only my NHR is laying. I do the regular hunts but no other signs from the other 6 monthers. But I'll keep you posted.

Actually laying has been very light this year. We have been blessed with nice weather, good forage and I'm guessing they have the bugs at bay. So something is definitely up. Stay tuned.