when should I expect eggs?

[katssmilin]

We purchased 6 chicks on May 15. They were born May 12. They are a cross between RIR and Americana. They were straight run so we don't know yet how many hens there may be. From reading the forums they won't start laying until 25 weeks. If that holds true they won't begin until early November. My question is my older hens who are laying started to molt last October and November. Does that mean the chicks will molt before they start laying meaning it will be like January when they actually start laying or will it be another year until they molt? Do chickens molt every year? When do I stop feeding them chick food and start them on laying mash? Thanks for your interest and help. These forums have been a lifesaver for the older chickens.

 

[mnferalkitty]

Around Nov-Dec for eggs

 

[katssmilin]

Thank you I wasn't sure if they would molt their first year or not.