When will my hens start laying?

[poppyandpatch]

I have 2 13 and 1/2 week old Silkies, one 14 week old Dominique, and one 14 week old Buff Orpington. I was wondering at what age they would start to lay. Thanks!

 

[Fred's Hens]

Not until 22 weeks at the earlier end of the spectrum. Some birds take as long as 30 weeks to begin. All in due time.

 

[poppyandpatch]

Does the breed depend on when they lay or do all chickens lay around the same time?

 

[poppyandpatch]

Thanks!

 

[Chick Charm]

Patience. Watch for their combs to really redden at 20 weeks old then they get a little loud and then within a couple of weeks they begin to lay.

 

[Fred's Hens]

Breeds vary, but also individuals within a flock differ. Not every junior high kid gets their adult attributes at the same moment. Chickens are individuals too.

 

[SuburbanPixie]

I've been told that some can lay as early as 18 weeks, but that most lay later and that some wait a long time. What is the average age range of laying onset?

 

[SuburbanPixie]

mine are about 18 weeks at this point, so can I assume they'll be laying by the end of August? *hopeful grin*

 

[poppyandpatch]

So anywhere from like 18-30 weeks they will start to lay? Thanks for the help! My Buff Orpington is already very loud!

 

[CatSol]

1 of my Buff Orp started laying just a little over 5 months old. I guess she is an early bloomer Her name is Buttercup. My other 2 are taking a little longer. I was told the average for Orpingtons was about 6 months. But there are always exceptions to the rules.