White Leghorn Chickens

[Birdine]

Hello. My white leghorns are 20 weeks old and i have heard that this specific breed is supposed to lay early like 16-20 weeks Just wanted to know why they aren't laying yet and when they will be laying eggs. Anyone else having chickens not laying eggs? Seems like i have been waiting an eternity.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

They are coming into sexual maturity in decreasing daylight so it can take a bit longer than birds that mature in the spring. The plus side to it is they mature more before starting to lay which can help cut down on problems from hens maturing too young like prolapse, and being egg bound. They will start when they are ready. Start dates are just estimates.

 

[QueenMisha]

While Leghorns tend to lay earlier than most, many still lay within the typical range for production breeds - 6-7 months. 20 weeks is still within the earliest possible window.