when will my chicks start laying eggs?

[aprild78]

My babies are 5/6 weeks, and I'm a first time chicken owner. When will they start laying eggs, and do I need to do anything to prepare for this? Thank you!

 

[Judy]

The average age is probably around 20 weeks, but it varies greatly. Some breeds usually wait til around 24 or 26 weeks. An occasional individual might not lay for a year. I had one start just before 15 weeks.