When do hens start laying and how often?

[mstrader5]

I have 5 Bantam hens and right now only getting 1 egg a day and we think it the same hen. They are only 6 months old and our we have 6 roos with them. Just curious if the laying will pick up this year or if next year will be much better. Thanks!

 

[junebuggena]

Too many roos can cause too much stress on the pullets, and it can affect production. They should all be old enough to lay, but they may be too stressed out by all the adolescent boys.

 

[mstrader5]

Should I separate the roos from the hens?

 

[junebuggena]

Even one boy is too many for only 5 girls. Either separate, or rehome them all. If you absolutely must keep one, then keep the most mellow.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

I would keep one rooster, bantam rooster are a bit less wearing on hens, most bantams don't lay well, they will lay for a bit than go broody, than lay than go broody. They will lay from now until next fall until they molt.

 

[Folly's place]

My Belgian d'Uccles tend to start laying at seven to eight months of age. Depending on breed and bloodlines, your pullets could start anytime, up to maybe eleven months. Patience! Either set up a separate coop for the cockrels, or pick one to keep. Too many boys, for sure. Mary