when do the hens start laying

[bpd73]

how old to hens need to be before they start laying. we have 7 hen 4 ameconas? 3 reds that are about 6 months

 

[DuckLady]

I am moving this to the correct forum for better response.

 

[sara]

I believe around 20 weeks, so may be faster or slower.

 

[suburbanchick]

I know... it's taking FOREVER! Mine were hatched on March 17 and it seems like they will never start laying.

 

[hisbride]

Mine started at 16 weeks but most I think start around 20 weeks.

 

[lurky]

Quote:
What kind were they?

 

[Cheri]

Don't have a clue but just wanted to say HOWDY NIEGHBOR!


(Baytown is 30 minutes south of me.)

 

[hisbride]

Lurky:I don't know which ones are laying but I have Barrred Rock, Red Stars, and Delawares. I posted a pic of the first egg which was pretty small. It was a double yolk !!!

 

[suburbanchick]

Were you already feeding them layer feed? Just wondering how that works bc the package says to wait till they're 18 weeks to feed layer pellets. But if they are ready to start laying earlier, will they have the nutrients and calcium to do so?

Mine are 16 weeks now and I'm about to go ahead and start with the layer pellets unless anyone thinks it's premature.

 

[mommahento5]

I was also wondering when to switch to layer feed. My pullets will be 16 weeks old this coming Saturday, and have not started laying yet. I keep watching thinking that it could happen any time now....I can't wait!!! Hope someone can answer our question.