Backyard Fowl Keepers

Hi everyone,

I have four Rhode Island Red hens that just turned five months old. Two of them started laying about a week ago and are consistently giving me an egg each per day! However, the other two havent even shown interest in the nesting boxes and dont seem to be laying at all. They all eat the same balanced diet, free-range for part of the day, and appear to be in great health.

Is this kind of variation normal for Rhode Island Reds? Could it just be that some mature faster than others, or should I be concerned that something is off? Any insight would be greatly appreciated!

Shorter daylight hours can slow down laying. If you're heading into fall or winter, they might need extra time or supplemental light.

If the non-layers aren't squatting when you approach, they probably aren't quite ready yet. Once they start that behavior, eggs usually follow soon!

You could try offering fake eggs or golf balls in the nesting boxes to encourage them to start using them when they're ready.

Have you checked for hidden nests? Sometimes young pullets will lay in odd places instead of using the nesting boxes!

Diet can play a role, too. Are they all getting enough calcium and protein? Sometimes a little boost can help kickstart laying.

Yes, it's totally normal! Even within the same breed, some hens mature faster than others. Give them a few more weeks, and they'll likely start laying soon.

If they have access to free-range, they might be laying somewhere unexpected. Try keeping them in the coop for a few mornings and see if that changes anything.

Keep watching for signs like increased vocalization and nesting behavior. Some hens just take a little longer, but it's worth the wait!

Are their combs and wattles getting redder? That's usually a sign they're close to laying. If they're still pale, they probably need more time.