Where are my eggs?!

[BigBuckSnort]

I've had my new chickens for over a week now and still no eggs! These chickens are putting me in the hole!

J/k. But seriously, how long until they sttle down into their new home? They are not laying hens, but 2 are very close in age to start any day now.

Also, when they do lay eggs, should you get it out of the coop ASAP? I mean, it shouldn't just sit there all day right? Do they get on a schedule eventually, like, lay close to the same time when they lay? Or just whenever, day to day?

Thanks

 

[Elite Silkies]

Different breeds vary. Some start as early as 18 weeks and some as late as 26 weeks.

What breeds do you have?

From what I have read, most collect eggs 2 or 3 times a day. Mine lays anywhere from Noon to 2:30. She was laying at night and started laying during the day. They won't lay at the exact same time every day.

I have had some new ones for about a week and a half now, and only one has started back laying, the other two haven't started again yet. I would give them a few weeks to settle in.

 

[lindabean]

I've read on this list that fresh laid eggs can sit out a long time. That they don't spoil, because of the protective film that covers egg when first layed. Only us compulsive non-rural folks that feel we must wash everything then refrigerate it, need to be aware that those eggs may eventually get some air transferred into the egg. Is that why older eggs will float in a bowl of water while fresh eggs will sink?
(Please remember that I am pretty new at all this, and may be passing on something someone told me to "poke my eyes" ie making fun of the dumb city girl!)

 

[BigBuckSnort]

I have a Barred Rock, Buff Orpington, and a Red Star. And maybe a Cuckoo Marans... prolly a roo tho...

 

[staceyl]

Go to the store - buy a dozen eggs and when you come home you will find that one of your chickens has started to lay. This has worked twice for me.