When can I expect eggs?

[cadhoops]

Good Afternoon - Got my first set of 11 chicks 13 weeks ago (wow are they growing fast). I have a mix of Rhode Island Reds and Red Sex Links. Can someone please let me know when these two breeds start to lay eggs? Also, my grandkids want to name their own chicken, however we can tell them apart so we want to band them. What size bands would be needed for this breed, and where is a good source for the bands.

Any help is appreciated.

 

[pennyJo1960]

Welcome to Backyard Chickens. This is a great place to explore and hang out. Have to be careful with banding they grow fast.
A dab of fingernail polish different color for each kid?

 

[SilverBirds]

Welcome to BYC! Thanks for joining us. Both tend to be early layers so I would start expecting eggs when they are 18-24 weeks old.

I've only ever used colored zip ties to band birds so I'm not sure which size would be best.

 

[Jenbirdee]

i’m afraid to use leg bands.

 

[cadhoops]

Welcome to Backyard Chickens. This is a great place to explore and hang out. Have to be careful with banding they grow fast.
A dab of fingernail polish different color for each kid?

Welcome to Backyard Chickens. This is a great place to explore and hang out. Have to be careful with banding they grow fast.
A dab of fingernail polish different color for each kid?

 

[cadhoops]

Thank you PennyJo. Where do you apply the polish, on their legs or talons, or elsewhere?

 

[cadhoops]

Welcome to BYC! Thanks for joining us. Both tend to be early layers so I would start expecting eggs when they are 18-24 weeks old.

I've only ever used colored zip ties to band birds so I'm not sure which size would be best.

Thank you for the info.

 

[muddy75]

Welcome to BYC!

 

[Nomadicus]

Hello and Welcome to BYC. Glad to have you here in this poultry loving community. I will not use leg bands until they are at least 2 years old to be safe.

 

[TwoCrows]

Hello and welcome to BYC!

You should start to see eggs within the next 2 months sometime. Combs, wattles and faces will get really red, the girls will squat for you when you lean over them.

You can use food dye on the heads or paint a toe nail with polish. Make sure to use a dark color they won't be attracted too.

Best wishes with your flock!