What should I know before getting laying hens?

Question

I was thinking about keeping hens- I'd like them to lay eggs. What should I know about this beforehand? Anyone have some good information or a resource? Thanks!

Answer 1

They are ALOT of work!  You have to have special food with hormones, etc and can be very mean.  But it sure is nice to have fresh eggs, they're  the best!

Answer 2

You should, FIRST, know if it's legal where you are.

Answer 3

here is some extremely good information on how to select hens that are good layers..You can tell by the yellow color on eyes and beaks..heres some info..

http://www.extension.umn.edu/distributio...

The best breed for laying eggs are the leghorn varities and the rhode island reds, which the latter lays brown eggs and the leghorns white..

http://library.thinkquest.org/TQ0312380/...

This site suggests 1 rooster for every 8 to 10 hens..Hens will lay eggs without a rooster around, but seem to be a little less stressed when a rooster is present...A hen will lay more eggs when not stressed out than one will that is...A rooster is soothing to a hen..make sure to 'candle" your eggs before eating ...

http://joecliffordfaust.com/chickens/chi...

Answer 4

Cool.Have a good pen, good nests, feed them good laying food, and greens. 1 rooster, depending on how many laying hens you have.