How Old Are Chickens When They Start Laying Eggs?

I’ll never forget the first time I thought my hen, Coco, laid her first egg. I was so excited I told the whole internet about it… only to find out someone had slipped a fake egg into my coop! It didn’t crack the next morning, and I was crushed. Two days later, Coco really did lay her first egg, and yes, I made just as big of a deal about it. Not long after, the rest of my flock followed her lead, and suddenly I had more fresh eggs than I knew what to do with.

eggs in nesting boxes with green turf

That moment made me realize just how exciting it is when chickens finally begin laying. But it also raised the big question every new chicken keeper asks: When do hens start laying eggs?

 

When Do Chickens Start Laying Eggs?

Most hens will begin laying between 16 and 24 weeks old (about 4–6 months). But don’t be surprised if your flock doesn’t all start at once. Timing depends on breed, diet, environment and overall health.

  • Early layers (like Leghorns and Rhode Island Reds) may start around 16–18 weeks.

  • Heavier breeds (like Orpingtons or Brahmas) may not lay until 20–24 weeks or later.

     

What Helps Chickens Lay Eggs on Time?

Several factors can speed up or slow down when hens lay:

  • Daylight hours – Chickens need about 14–16 hours of light per day to keep laying consistently. In winter, production often slows down. Some keepers use artificial light, but I prefer letting my flock take a natural break.

  • Nutrition – A diet rich in protein, calcium and essential nutrients is key for healthy development and egg laying.

  • Environment – Stress-free housing, good space and protection from predators keep hens comfortable enough to lay.

  • Breed differences – Some are natural sprinters (early layers), others are marathoners (slower but steady).

     

Signs Your Hens Are About to Lay

Before the first egg shows up, your chickens may give you some clues:

  • Bright red combs and wattles

  • Nesting behavior and increased clucking

  • Hanging out in the nest boxes

  • Slight appetite changes

  • “Squatting” when you approach

The first eggs are often small with thinner shells, but don’t worry, they’ll improve as your hens mature.

How Long Do Chickens Lay Eggs?

Most hens hit their peak production in the first year, then gradually slow down. I still have some seven-year-old hens in my coop, they don’t lay anymore, but they’ve earned their retirement (and free food!).

If you want steady egg production, it’s a good idea to add new pullets to your flock every year or two. Just remember: breeds vary. Some ornamental chickens are adorable but not big egg producers, while heavier breeds are great layers.

Final Tip: Plan for More Chickens Than You Think

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: build a bigger coop than you think you’ll need. Whether you’re after colorful eggs, high production or simply the fun of keeping backyard chickens, you’ll almost always end up with more hens than you planned for, and you’ll love every one of them.

Fresh eggs, happy hens and lots of chicken personalities make the waiting worth it.

Until next time,

–The Wing Lady