What age hens start laying?

[FrenchFarm]

At what age do hens usually start laying eggs? We got our 25 Isa browns as little chicks on April 15. They've grown a lot, but we're expecting it to be several more months before they start contributing to our breakfast. - Stephanie

 

[lilcountry]

I have heard 10-12 weeks most commonly but I dont know if that is correct. I got some on Easter weekend and no eggs yet

 

[s6bee]

Typically it's around 17 wks. Mine didn't start laying till 25 wks. old though. I would plan on 20 to be safe.

 

[John01]

Will they give any kind of signs (actions, behavior, demeanor, etc...) that they are about to start laying?

 

[s6bee]

Usually a couple weeks before or maybe even 3 you may see the combs getting really red. They also sometimes get noisier. I don't have those breeds though, but I don't think it will differ too much. The combs/waddles are a big clue you are close.

 

[Smitty's Farm]

Typically they start laying around 18 - 22 weeks old, but it depends on the breed, environment & what they are being fed. I think my flock started laying at around 20 weeks last yr. Gosh~ it seemed like waiting forever.

The signs that I saw was them doing the submissive squat about 2 weeks before they started to lay.

I know some BYC member's chickens didn't start laying until way later than the typical 18 - 22 weeks.

 

[Smitty's Farm]

Quote:
Oh yea, I forgot about the combs & waddle part.

I think mine got nosier after they started to lay, but can't remember now. I just know how sweet they would squat and let you pick them up & pet them.

 

[s6bee]

Smitty's Farm :

Quote:
Oh yea, I forgot about the combs & waddle part.

I think mine got nosier after they started to lay, but can't remember now. I just know how sweet they would squat and let you pick them up & pet them.

I forgot about the "squat".

When you go to pet them, they kind of squat down, it is obvious.​

 

[bigzio]

My favorite rule of thumb is 20 weeks. Some may be a little sooner and some a little later....however most will start around 20 weeks, so I wouldn't worry a little soon or late.

bigzio

 

[Smitty's Farm]

Quote:
Oh yea, I forgot about the combs & waddle part.

I think mine got nosier after they started to lay, but can't remember now. I just know how sweet they would squat and let you pick them up & pet them.

I forgot about the "squat".

When you go to pet them, they kind of squat down, it is obvious.

Well, between the 2 of us we pretty much covered all the signs.

Oh yea, I just remember another one ........... Don't forget to check the vent!