How old do chickens have to be to first start laying eggs?

Question

i've had chickens for a few months now and they are getting big. i just want to know how long before the hens start laying their eggs.

Answer 1

most breeds start between 5-6 months :)

Answer 2

Chickens will usually start to lay eggs at 5-6 months. Feeding them a diet of layers pellets from 12-15 weeks onwards will possibly help them start and I find my chickens lay more eggs on them then any other food. If you want a lovely large rich yolk I'd recommend mixing it with 1/3 mixed corn. Plus any other scraps including small bits of meat (ham fat they go mad for) will produce a nice egg. Mine usually get everything the dog doesn't eat :-)