Raising backyard chickens can be a rewarding experience for many homeowners. Fresh eggs provide a daily source of protein, and chickens help control pests while fertilizing gardens. For those considering adding a small flock, the black Australorp is an excellent breed to raise for eggs. But at what age do these industrious birds start laying?
Introduction to Black Australorps
The black Australorp chicken originates from Australia and was developed in the early 20th century from crossbreeding Black Orpingtons and black Minorcas. They have lustrous, greenish-black feathers and are a medium to large dual-purpose breed. Australorps are known for being calm, friendly birds that make great pets. They also have a reputation as prolific egg layers. Under optimum conditions, hens can produce up to 250 brown eggs per year. Their high productivity makes them a favorite among small flock owners looking for a steady supply of eggs.
Factors That Influence Start of Lay
The age at which a pullet (young hen) begins laying eggs is influenced by several factors:
- Breed – Some breeds, like the Australorp, mature and start laying sooner.
- Nutrition – An optimal diet with sufficient protein supports development.
- Light exposure – Increasing day length in spring triggers hormones for egg production.
- Health status – Disease or parasites can delay sexual maturity.
- Season – Hens born in spring or summer may lay sooner than those hatched in fall or winter.
Providing the proper environment and care is important to get pullets laying as early as their genetics allow. Under suboptimal conditions, onset of lay may be delayed by several weeks or months.
Typical Age of First Lay for Australorps
Most Australorp hens will commence laying between 18-24 weeks of age. Some individual birds may start a bit sooner or later. Here are some guidelines for their development:
- 12-15 weeks – Pullets reach puberty and ovarian development accelerates.
- 16-20 weeks – First eggs possible anytime in this period.
- 21-24 weeks – 50% or more of pullets laying.
- 30 weeks – All pullets laying regularly.
This timeline can vary slightly based on time of hatch, diet, light exposure, and other elements. Hot summer weather may also delay onset of lay but pullets will catch up in the fall. Once a hen starts laying, she should continue regular egg production for 1 to 2 years before slowing down.
Feeding for Optimal Egg Production
Giving pullets the proper feed from a young age helps prepare them for lay. Here are some guidelines:
| Age | Feed Type | Protein Minimum |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – 6 weeks | Starter feed | 18-20% |
| 6 – 12 weeks | Grower feed | 16% |
| 12 – 18 weeks | Developer feed | 14 – 16% |
| 18+ weeks | Layer feed | 16 – 18% |
Free choice calcium in the form of oyster shell or limestone should also be provided from 18 weeks onward to support egg shell formation.
Preparing for First Eggs
As pullets near point of lay, it helps to take some preparation steps:
- Add nest boxes – Provide at least one 12″ x 12″ box per 3-4 hens.
- Consider collecting eggs – Letting eggs accumulate may lead to egg eating.
- Feed higher calcium layer diet – Ensures adequate calcium for egg shells.
- Maintain light exposure – No dramatic light decreases which could disrupt laying.
Observing pullets for signs of first lay can help capture eggs before any accidental breakage or eating occurs. Signs include:
- Enlarged, bright red comb and wattles
- Prominent pubic bones
- Loose, wide-set vent
- Milling around nest boxes
- Making nesting motions
- Singing an egg song
Once a pullet lays her first small or odd-shaped egg, she will quickly begin producing normal sized eggs.
Troubleshooting Delayed or Non-Starting Layers
If pullets are slow to start laying or fail to lay entirely, review their management:
- Ensure adequate nutrition – increase protein, calcium, calories
- Treat any parasites and illness
- Minimize stressors like relocation
- Provide 14 – 16 hours of daylight via lighting
- Separate from roosters if flock was mixed
- Cull birds with health/development issues
With adjustments, most hens should start laying within 4-8 weeks. If not, they may be reproductive duds that should be culled.
When Do Australorps Stop Laying?
While individual hen’s productive lifespans vary, a well-cared for Australorp can lay eggs for 5-7 years. Most hens will experience a decline in laying after 2-3 years of heavy production however. To maximize the breeding lifespan:
- Avoid long drops in egg production by preventing broodiness
- Use lighting to stimulate optimal laying seasons
- Cull hens that fall out of lay for extended periods
By 4 years of age, expect 60-75% of a flock to still be laying reasonably well. After 6-7 years, egg numbers will diminish as hens enter retirement.
In Summary
For backyard chicken-keepers looking for a consistent supply of brown eggs, black Australorps are an excellent breed to raise. Pullets hatched out in spring will usually commence laying between 18-24 weeks of age if given proper feed, lighting, and care. Hens lay the most eggs during their first 2-3 years of life but may continue laying 4-7 years total. Monitoring pullets for sexual maturity and being prepared for first eggs ensures eggs are collected and eaten. With good management, Australorps will provide a generous bounty of eggs for the small urban or suburban flock.