When is a chkn no longer reproductive? (not just egglaying)

[Jmurcks]

Hi, I am wondering at what age hens and roosters stop being fertile.
I know a hen will keep laying but I mean is there a certain age to where she no longer is able to produce chicks?
Same question for the rooster, too.
I am thinking of buying an older hen (2 years) and I want to make sure I am not wasting $$
My rooster is right at three and I was wondering when/if I need to start rearing a chick for a replacement!
Thanks!

 

[Jmurcks]

The Chicken for Dummies book mentioned something about only being reproductive for about 2 or 3 years...
Anyone know if 2 years old is still ok?

 

[CMV]

I can't answer all your questions. Chickens will continue to lay eggs throughout their lifetime. It slows down after 2 years and after 4 years it really slows down. I wouldn't spend much money on a 2 year old hen. I would maybe spend $10 and that's about it. No one can answer whether the hen will lay fertilized eggs or if she'll hatch them. You'll have to take your chances there. And your rooster has lived a good long time. If you want to continue his line you may want to try to raise up some babies from him.

Good luck.

 

[Sunshyne276]

It's my understanding, a hen is most productive at around 18 months..
Still lays eggs, but slows in production around 2 years old.
How much are they selling her for? What breed?
Really, it also depends on the breed and the individual hen,
as well as the diet and care you provide for her.
I wouldn't spend much on a 2 year old hen, for egg production.
But, they make great pets, with or w/out the eggs, so...

Roos... Good question! Would like to know the same thing.
Anyone?

 

[Jmurcks]

The hen I was looking at was $30 + shipping ($60)
I was really just wanting her to raise chicks from so it didn't matter how many "food" eggs she lays... they just need to be fertile!
I wasn't sure if their reproduction was affected with age or not!
Thanks for the answers and I do have a little prospect that could replace my roo (but he is sooo nice) and the little guy is still too young to tell how he'll turn out!

 

[CMV]

$60 for a 2 y.o. hen is outrageous.

 

[Jmurcks]

Lol, thanks guys!
I think I'll pass on her, then!
Thanks for all the help!