Young Hens Starting to Lay

[idispatch4911]

I have 2 hens (RIR) just starting to lay. We got our first egg, then about 4 days later another one. Then 3 days after that, the 3rd egg. Now, we are consistently getting an egg a day for the last several days to 1 week. I don't know if both are laying yet, or if it's just the one. Eggs are same shape and size.

When do young hens reach their "top potential" for egg laying? I'm thinking since we're still only a few weeks into this, we aren't at full speed yet, but I still haven't gotten 2 eggs in a single day to know if both are laying.

Thanks for the help!

 

[yankeedoodle300]

The first Eggs are magical little Oval Balls of Joy!

 

[Fred's Hens]

You are right. It takes time for them to get up to speed.

 

[yankeedoodle300]

I don't Know the " Laying Potential ", but i Do hope Other People can Help you! I know they lay from 20-35 weeks Normally....

 

[Woodcox Acre]

Thats the best day ever when you get that first egg. I bought six new pullets a couple of months ago
and was told they were five months old. Well they were not. Probably three months old at best. Thier wadles
are now starting to grow good, so I'm hoping it won't be to long now and I will see those first golden eggs.

 

[artsy1]

Our RIR'S Laid their very first egg on my hubbys b-day.............
so exciting

 

[poseygrace]

My guess would be you have one pullet laying, and the other hasn't started yet. Here's why I think this:

1) I've noticed each hen has a distinct egg, even hens of the same breed. If you are looking closely and can't tell any difference, it's probably just one hen laying. For example, I have three Wyandottes. One lays almost round eggs. One lays eggs with freckles. One lays perfectly shaped, perfectly even-colored eggs. I can tell instantly who laid what.

2) If they were both laying, you'd have gotten two eggs on at least one day. Once they are up and cranking, you will usually get an egg from each hen every 26 hours. (There are exceptions to this, but it is generally the rule). Watch the timing, and it will help you know who laid them.

Congrats!!!