Too inpatient... when will they start

[SierraChickens]

I got two chickens. They look to be about that time to start laying. Wondering to see how much longer they got. Do you know?

 

[BantyChooks]

I got two chickens. They look to be about that time to start laying. Wondering to see how much longer they got. Do you know?
View attachment 1256563

They look like they still have a while. Their combs and wattles will round out and get red before they start lay, at least in the case of the left bird, and their faces will not appear so crow shaped.

 

[SierraChickens]

Pretty sure they are both hens. But was hopping the one with the red face was going to start laying soon

 

[BantyChooks]

Pretty sure they are both hens. But was hopping the one with the red face was going to start laying soon

Yes, they are both pullets. The pink faced one looks closer to laying than the other but don't go scrambling to the nest boxes after work just yet.

 

[theoldchick]

Do you know how old they are?

 

[MillersFarm]

The first one on the top looks like a sickly pale color, What are you feeding your hens currently?

 

[sourland]

Both are pullets and still a while from laying.

 

[aart]

But I already have 2, 4 month olds in there.

So they are about 5 months old now.....you still have a ways to go.

Pullets can drive ya nuts with their apparent 'reddening' up......their color can brighten and fade with exertion/excitement/resting. They look redder, but it's nothing like when the hormones start to flow and they really 'get red'.

Average onset of lay for most breeds is 18-28 weeks, some start sooner, some start later. Time of year, diet, and housing can also be factors.

Chickens can teach you patience.....or not. Hang in there, it'll happen!

 

[RUNuts]

My Daddy would say, "when they are good and ready and not a moment before!"

Just like everyone in class hit puberty differently, so will the pullets. Some enjoy the waiting, others, not so much. It will happen, so never give up.

Add chickens in place of cats.

 

[GreenbrierChickens]

I just had a 10 month old Easter egger finally lay this week. It may be awhile