When Do Wyandottes Start Laying Eggs? Your Ultimate Egg-Laying Guide!

Last updated on May 24, 2025

So, you’ve brought home some adorable Wyandotte pullets, and now you’re eagerly watching them grow, probably wondering, “Just when do Wyandottes start laying eggs?” That moment you reach into the nesting box and find that very first egg is incredibly exciting! It’s a common question for every chicken keeper!

Wyandotte chickens typically start laying eggs between 18 and 24 weeks of age. This is the most common window you can expect your lovely Wyandotte pullet to begin her egg-laying journey. Knowing this typical age range helps you prepare and provide the right care.

You’ve done your research, picked a fantastic dual-purpose breed known for their stunning looks and reliable egg production, and now the waiting game begins. But honestly, the exact timing can feel a bit like trying to predict the weather – there’s a typical pattern, but lots of little things can shift the forecast. Stick with me, and we’ll explore not just the when they might start, but the why and how to help your girls get started producing those first eggs!

Quick Chicken Terms Explained

Sometimes chicken talk has its own special words! Here are a few you might see in this guide:

• Pullet: This is what we call a young female chicken before she starts laying eggs. Once she starts laying, she’s called a hen.
• Broody: A hen that stops laying and wants to sit on a nest to hatch eggs. She’ll stay on the nest a lot and might get puffy or make noises if you try to move her.
• Comb: The red, fleshy part on top of a chicken’s head.
• Wattles: The two red, fleshy dangly bits under a chicken’s chin.

What Makes Wyandotte Chickens Stand Out in the Egg Department?

Wyandottes aren’t just pretty faces in the flock; they are solid, dependable egg layers, which is a big reason for their lasting popularity. But what truly sets them apart when it comes to egg production? It’s more than just the number of eggs; it’s their whole package.

Unpacking the Traits of Wyandotte Chickens as Layers

First off, Wyandottes are known for their calm and docile temperament. Now, you might ask, “What does personality have to do with Wyandotte egg production?” Well, a less stressed chicken is often a more consistent layer. As Dr. Jacquie Jacob, a Poultry Extension Project Manager at the University of Kentucky, points out, stress can significantly impact egg laying in chickens. (University of Kentucky Extension, “Stress in Laying Hens”). Because Wyandottes tend to be easygoing, they often handle coop life and interactions with other chickens (and people!) with less fuss. This can translate to more reliable laying.

They are also notably hardy birds. Originating in the colder climates of North America, Wyandottes are built to withstand chilly weather. This is a huge plus because many chicken breeds will slow down or stop laying altogether when the temperature drops. Wyandottes, however, are more likely to continue providing those lovely brown eggs even through cooler months. The Livestock Conservancy notes their robust nature as a key characteristic. (The Livestock Conservancy, “Wyandotte Chicken”). This resilience makes them a practical choice for backyard egg production in diverse climates.

Another interesting trait is their tendency towards broodiness. While some see this as a downside if maximizing egg numbers is the sole goal, it’s a fantastic trait if you’re interested in naturally hatching chicks. A broody Wyandotte hen will diligently sit on eggs (hers or others you provide) and raise the chicks. This maternal instinct is strong in the breed. If you’re not looking to hatch chicks, you’ll need to manage broodiness, but it’s a testament to their natural mothering capabilities. We’ll touch more on broodiness in Wyandottes later.

Why Are Wyandottes So Popular for Egg Production?

Their popularity isn’t accidental. Wyandottes consistently lay a good number of medium to large brown eggs – typically around 200 eggs per year, or about 4 eggs a week. While not the absolute highest output compared to some commercial hybrids, their production is very respectable, especially for a heritage breed. Breeds like Leghorns might lay more, but Wyandottes offer a balance of good egg numbers, a friendly disposition, and striking appearance.

Moreover, their dual-purpose nature adds to their appeal. They were originally developed for both eggs and meat. This means they are sturdy, well-muscled birds. So, while you’re enjoying a steady supply of eggs, you also have a bird with a good carcass quality, should you choose to process them eventually. This versatility is a big draw for homesteaders and those seeking self-sufficiency. According to research published in Poultry Science, dual-purpose breeds like the Wyandotte have historically been valued for this balance. (You can often find such articles on Google Scholar by searching for “dual-purpose chicken breeds history”.)

Finally, let’s be honest, their beauty plays a role! With their rounded, fluffy appearance and a stunning variety of feather patterns (like the popular Silver Laced and Gold Laced), they are simply a joy to have in the backyard. Happy chicken keepers often find that enjoying their flock contributes to a better overall experience, and Wyandottes certainly deliver on visual appeal. This combination of reliable Wyandotte egg production, hardiness, temperament, and beauty makes them a beloved choice for backyard egg production.

So, When Do Wyandottes Actually Start Laying Eggs?

Alright, let’s get to the heart of the matter: what age do Wyandotte start laying? This is probably the question I get asked most often by new Wyandotte owners!

The Typical Laying Age: Patience is a Virtue!

Generally speaking, you can expect your Wyandotte pullet to start laying her first eggs somewhere between 18 to 24 weeks of age (that’s about 4.5 to 6 months). I’ve seen some eager beavers start a little earlier, and some take their sweet time, pushing closer to the 6-month mark or even a tad beyond. It’s a bit like waiting for a pot to boil when you’re really hungry – it feels like it takes forever!

It’s important to remember that this is an average. Heritage breeds like Wyandottes sometimes mature a bit slower than commercial hybrid layers, which are often bred to lay as early and as much as possible. So, if your friend’s hybrid chicken started laying at 16 weeks, don’t panic if your Wyandotte isn’t quite there yet. They operate on their own, slightly more relaxed schedule.

Why the Variation? It’s Not Just About Age

Now, why isn’t there one magic date for when all Wyandottes start laying? Several factors come into play:

• Strain and Genetics: Even within the Wyandotte breed, there can be variations between different lines or hatcheries. Some lines might be inherently earlier or later maturing.
• Nutrition: This is a big one! A pullet needs top-notch nutrition, particularly sufficient protein (around 16-18% in their grower feed, then switching to a layer feed with around 16% protein and added calcium just before they start laying). If their diet has been lacking, their body will prioritize growth and development over egg production. The University of Georgia Extension emphasizes the importance of proper nutrition for pullet development and subsequent egg production. (University of Georgia Extension, “Feeding Chickens for Egg Production”).
• Time of Year & Daylight Hours: Chickens are quite sensitive to light. Increasing daylight hours in the spring naturally stimulate egg production. If your Wyandotte pullets are approaching laying age in the fall or winter when daylight is decreasing, they might delay starting until the days get longer again. We’ll talk more about light management later.
• Overall Health and Stress Levels: A healthy, happy, and stress-free pullet is much more likely to start laying on time. Illness, parasites, or a stressful coop environment (like overcrowding or bullying) can divert energy away from reproductive development.

Think of it like this: a pullet’s body has a checklist. Grow feathers? Check. Develop strong bones? Check. Reach a certain body weight and maturity? Check. Only when all these essential developmental milestones are met, and conditions are favorable, will her system give the green light for egg production.

Spotting the Signs: Is Your Wyandotte About to Lay?

Instead of just calendar-watching, it’s more exciting (and useful!) to look for the chicken first egg signs. Your Wyandotte pullets will give you some pretty clear clues that they’re getting close. Here’s what I always look out for:

1. The “Squat”: This is probably the most tell-tale sign! As a pullet nears laying, if you approach her and gently reach over her back, she might instinctively squat down and slightly spread her wings. This is a submissive posture that, in nature, she would adopt for a rooster during mating. It indicates her hormones are kicking in. Not all pullets do this super obviously, but many do.
2. Comb and Wattle Development: You’ll notice her comb and wattles (the red fleshy bits on her head and under her beak) will become larger, and much more vibrant and red. When they are pale and small, she’s likely still a way off. A bright, engorged comb is a strong indicator that laying is imminent.
3. Exploring Nesting Boxes: Suddenly, those nesting boxes that were previously ignored might become objects of intense curiosity. You might see your Wyandotte pullet poking her head in, rearranging the bedding, or even settling in for a “test sit.” This is a fantastic sign!
4. Changes in Appetite and Vocalizations: Some pullets might eat more as their bodies prepare for the energy demands of laying. You might also notice a change in their sounds – perhaps they become a bit more talkative or start making new noises. The “egg song” (a cackle some hens make after laying) might even be practiced!
5. Pelvic Bone Spacing: This one is a bit more hands-on. If you gently palpate your pullet’s abdomen, just below the vent, you’ll feel two bones (the pubic bones). In a non-laying pullet, these bones will be fairly close together. As she gets ready to lay, these bones will widen to allow an egg to pass. You should be able to fit two or even three fingers between them when she’s close to laying. The vent itself will also become larger, moister, and more oval-shaped rather than round and dry. This is a technique experienced poultry keepers use, as described by poultry resources like the Mississippi State University Extension. (Mississippi State University Extension, “Determining if a Hen is Laying”).

Keeping an eye out for these chicken first egg signs is much more reliable than just counting the weeks. It’s your Wyandotte’s way of saying, “Get the egg basket ready!”

How Does the Wyandotte’s Laying Age Compare to Other Breeds?

It’s natural to wonder how your Wyandotte pullet stacks up against other popular egg-laying chicken breeds when it comes to the laying age of chickens. Knowing these differences can help set realistic expectations, especially if you have a mixed flock.

Wyandottes vs. the Egg-Laying Champions

Let’s look at a few common comparisons:

• ISA Browns: These are hybrid, sex-link chickens specifically bred for high egg production. And boy, do they deliver! ISA Browns are often some of the earliest layers, frequently starting around 16 to 18 weeks. They are egg-laying machines, but this intense production can sometimes mean a shorter laying career compared to some heritage breeds. So, while they beat Wyandottes to the punch, it’s a different kind of laying profile.
• Leghorns: Famous for their prolific white egg production, Leghorns are another breed that tends to start early, often around 16 to 20 weeks. They are lightweight, efficient layers, but can sometimes be a bit more flighty or less cold-hardy than Wyandottes. If you’re purely after the earliest possible eggs and lots of them, Leghorns are strong contenders.
• Rhode Island Reds (RIRs): These are fantastic dual-purpose birds, much like Wyandottes, known for their brown eggs and hardy nature. RIRs typically start laying a bit earlier than Wyandottes, often between 18 to 20 weeks, though some can take up to 24 weeks. They are often considered one of the best all-around breeds for backyard flocks, balancing good egg numbers with a robust constitution. PennState Extension provides good general timelines for various breeds, often noting RIRs as reliable and relatively early layers. (PennState Extension, “Chicken Breeds for the Small Flock” – Note: While this link is general, specific laying ages for breeds are commonly discussed in such resources).

Here’s a quick comparison of when different breeds start laying eggs:

Breed	Typical Laying Age	Notes
ISA Browns	16-18 weeks	Very early, high production
Leghorns	16-18 weeks	Very early, high production, often flighty
Wyandottes	18-24 weeks	Good production, calm, cold-hardy
Rhode Island Reds	18-24 weeks	Good production, hardy
Orpingtons	20-28 weeks	Slower to mature, good layers, broody
Brahmas	24-30+ weeks	Slower to mature, very large breed

So, while not the absolute fastest, Wyandottes are reliable and reach maturity at a very reasonable age for consistent backyard egg production. They’re the steady marathon runners, not the quick dashers.

Understanding Breed-Specific Development Timelines

Why the difference in when do chickens start laying across breeds? It largely boils down to genetics and breeding focus.

• Production Hybrids (like ISA Browns): These birds have been selectively bred for generations with one primary goal: to lay as many eggs as possible, as early as possible. Their entire physiology is geared towards rapid maturation and high-output laying.
• Heritage Breeds (like Wyandottes): These breeds were often developed for a broader set of traits – not just eggs, but also meat, hardiness, foraging ability, and temperament. Their development timeline might be a bit more paced, allowing for robust overall growth before channeling energy into egg production. The Livestock Conservancy champions these breeds for their sustainability and well-rounded characteristics.
• Light vs. Heavy Breeds: Generally, lighter-bodied breeds (like Leghorns) tend to mature and start laying a bit earlier than heavier, dual-purpose breeds. The energy required for growth to a larger frame size can sometimes mean a slightly later onset of lay for the bigger birds.

It’s all about what the breed was originally intended for. Think of it like athletes: a sprinter might peak earlier in their career than a marathon runner. Both are incredible, but their development and performance timelines are different based on their specialty. The same applies to our feathered friends! The key is to understand the typical laying age of chickens for the specific breeds you’re raising and provide them with the best care to meet their unique developmental needs.

What Age Do Most Chickens Start Laying Eggs Overall?

Stepping back a bit, at what age do most chickens start laying eggs? across the board? Looking at most breeds, the average onset of laying is typically between 5 and 7 months old (roughly 20 to 28 weeks). However, this is a broad average, and as we’ve seen, breed makes a big difference! Understanding the general timeline for when most chickens start laying eggs gives context to the Wyandotte timeline.

Beyond breed, several things can push that timeline one way or another for when chickens start laying eggs. For instance, pullets hatched in the spring or early summer tend to start laying right around that 18-24 week mark because they mature as the days are getting shorter in the fall. This decreasing light can sometimes delay onset slightly compared to a pullet who reaches maturity during increasing daylight hours. Nutrition is absolutely critical, too. A pullet needs the right balance of protein and nutrients to develop properly before she can start producing eggs.

Factors That Really Affect When Wyandottes Start Laying

Understanding the typical laying age of chickens is one thing, but knowing what can change that age is super helpful. With Wyandottes, like any breed, several key factors play a significant role. Let’s break them down:

Fueling the Machine: Nutrition and Protein Needs

This is HUGE. Think of egg-laying as a demanding physical process, kind of like building something big and important. A pullet needs adequate protein to grow and develop her body, especially the parts needed for making eggs. Protein is like the building blocks!

From hatching up to about 18 weeks, your pullets need a good chick starter/grower feed with a higher protein level, usually around 18-20% protein. This helps them grow big and strong.

But here’s the key change: Once she’s getting ready to lay, around 18 weeks, she needs to switch to a layer feed. This feed has a slightly lower protein level, typically 16-18% protein, but the really crucial difference is the much higher amount of calcium. Layer feed contains about 3.5-4.5% calcium.

Why all that extra calcium? Because eggshells are mostly calcium! Her body needs a huge amount of it to form strong, hard shells for every single egg she lays. Without enough calcium at this stage, she simply can’t make proper shells, leading to soft-shelled or even shell-less eggs.

Providing the best feed for laying hens with the right calcium level is non-negotiable if you want timely production and healthy eggs.

A common mistake? Feeding too many treats! While fun, excessive treats don’t have the balanced nutrients a developing pullet needs, especially the high calcium required for laying.

According to experts, proper nutrition, particularly adequate calcium for laying hens, is the cornerstone of reproductive health in poultry. You can find more detailed information on poultry nutrition from university extension offices, like this resource from Oregon State University.

Let There Be Light: Lighting, Temperature, and Seasonal Changes

Light is a major trigger for egg production. Think of light as a signal that flips a switch in a chicken’s brain! Chickens need about 14-16 hours of daylight to stimulate their reproductive hormones. These hormones tell their body it’s time to start making eggs.

Pullets reaching maturity during the fall and winter, when daylight hours are naturally decreasing, might delay laying until the days start getting longer again in the spring. Less light means less of that “go time” signal.

This is why supplementing light in the coop can encourage earlier or more consistent laying during the darker months.

Temperature also matters; extreme heat or cold can stress a bird and put egg production on hold. Chickens are most comfortable and productive between 45-75°F (7-24°C). If they’re too hot or too cold, their body focuses on just surviving, not laying eggs.

A common mistake here is not providing supplemental light in winter, leading to disappointed waits for those first eggs!

Happy Hens Lay Eggs: Coop Stress and Space Considerations

Chickens are sensitive creatures! Overcrowding in the coop, introducing new birds, predator threats, or even just a noisy environment can cause stress.

When a chicken is stressed, her body releases stress hormones, kind of like how we get stressed out. These hormones tell her body to focus on dealing with the stressor (like running from a perceived danger) instead of using energy to make eggs. It’s like her body says, “Hold on, egg-laying isn’t the priority right now!”

Stressed birds often put their bodily resources into survival rather than reproduction, which can absolutely delay when will my Wyandotte lay.

Ensuring they have enough space (at least 4 sq ft per bird inside, more in the run), secure housing, and a generally calm environment is vital. Adequate space reduces conflict and stress, promoting overall health and timely laying.

Don’t underestimate how much a cramped or scary coop can impact their laying schedule!

First Eggs: What to Expect from Your Young Wyandottes

Okay, the day finally arrives! You check the nesting box, and there it is – the very first egg from your Wyandotte! Don’t be surprised if it looks a little… well, weird. This is totally normal! Her reproductive system is just getting warmed up and figuring things out. I remember finding my first pullet egg – it was tiny and pale compared to the others, but I was still over the moon!

Here’s what’s totally normal for those initial eggs:

• Smaller Size: The first few eggs are often smaller than what you’d expect from a mature hen.
• Odd Shapes: They might be elongated, rounder, or just generally not the perfect oval.
• Thinner Shells: Sometimes the shells are a bit fragile or uneven.
• ‘Wind Eggs’: Occasionally, you might find an egg that’s just membrane with no hard shell.

The color might also vary slightly at first before settling into the lovely brown eggs Wyandottes are known for. It takes a little while, usually a few weeks, for her system to regulate and for the eggs to become a consistent size, shape, and frequency. Patience is key here!

How Long Do Wyandottes Lay For? Understanding Their Productive Years

Once your Wyandottes are in full swing, you might wonder, “How long do Wyandottes lay for?” That’s a fair question! They are generally excellent layers for the first 2-3 years of their life. This is their peak production period, where you can expect a steady supply of those beautiful brown eggs. Knowing how long do Wyandottes lay for helps manage expectations for egg production over time.

After the first few years, egg production will naturally start to decline gradually. They might lay fewer eggs per week, or take longer breaks between laying cycles. This is just a normal part of aging. While they might lay for several more years, the volume won’t be as high as in their prime.

How Long Do Wyandotte Chickens Lay Eggs in Their Lifetime?

So, how long do Wyandotte chickens lay eggs in their entire lifetime? It’s important to distinguish between their peak laying lifespan and their overall life expectancy. A Wyandotte chicken might live for 6-8 years, sometimes even longer with excellent care. However, their productive egg-laying life is typically shorter. While they may lay some eggs for 4-5 years or even more, the consistent, high-volume production usually tapers off significantly after year 3. Understanding how long do Wyandotte chickens lay eggs overall helps in planning your flock.

When hens stop laying regularly, they still have value in the flock! They eat less feed than when they are laying, they contribute to the flock dynamic, and they can be wonderful companions. You might choose to keep them as beloved pets even after their egg-laying days are mostly behind them.

Common Issues That Delay Laying in Wyandottes: What to Look For and How to Act

It can be frustrating when your pullets are past that 24-week mark and still no eggs! Several things can cause egg-laying problems in chickens. Here’s a breakdown of common culprits and what you can do:

Health Hiccups:

Internal parasites (like worms) or external parasites (like mites) can really stress a bird and delay laying. Illnesses, even minor ones, can also set them back. These health issues take up energy and resources that the hen would otherwise use for egg production.

What to do: Regularly check your birds for signs of parasites (lice, mites, worms). Look for changes in droppings, weight loss, or ruffled feathers. If you suspect parasites, consult a poultry vet or experienced chicken keeper for appropriate deworming or dusting treatments. Keep the coop clean to minimize parasite habitats.

Dietary Disasters:

As I mentioned, poor nutrition is a prime culprit. Not enough protein, insufficient calcium, or just low-quality feed will absolutely impact development and laying. Without the right nutrients, her body simply can’t build an egg.

What to do: Ensure your pullets are on a high-quality layer feed (16-18% protein, 3.5-4.5% calcium) starting around 18 weeks. Avoid giving too many scraps or treats, as this can dilute their essential nutrient intake. Always provide free-choice oyster shell in a separate dish so they can take extra calcium as needed for strong shells.

Housing Hassles:

Is the coop safe? Is it clean? Is there enough ventilation? Are there enough nesting boxes? Inadequate housing or a stressful environment can make a hen feel unsafe and unwilling to lay. A hen needs to feel secure and comfortable to go through the laying process.

What to do: Check your coop for drafts, leaks, or dampness. Ensure it’s well-ventilated but predator-proof. Provide at least one nesting box for every 3-4 hens, placed in a quiet, slightly darkened area. Keep the coop clean by regularly changing bedding.

Stress Signals:

Anything from predator scares to bullying within the flock can put a stop to laying. Look for signs of stress like hiding, reduced appetite, or changes in behavior. Stress hormones interfere with the hormones needed for egg production.

What to do: Identify potential stressors. Is there a new bird causing issues? Are predators lurking? Ensure your run is secure. If introducing new birds, do so gradually. Provide plenty of space and enrichment (like roosts, dust bathing areas) to keep them happy and reduce boredom-related pecking.

Broodiness:

Wyandottes, particularly some lines, can be prone to broodiness in Wyandottes.

Definition: Broody: A hen that stops laying eggs and focuses on sitting on a nest, trying to hatch chicks (even if there are no fertile eggs). This natural instinct puts her laying cycle on pause because her body is focused on incubation. I had one Wyandotte who was a champion broody – she’d sit on a golf ball if you let her!

What to do: If you find a hen sitting tightly in a nesting box all day and puffing up when you approach, she’s likely broody. To break broodiness, you need to make the nesting area uncomfortable for her. Remove her from the nesting box several times a day, block off the nesting boxes, or place her in a “broody breaker” cage (a wire-bottom cage that prevents her from feeling cozy enough to sit). This usually works within a few days to a week, and she should resume laying afterward.

Tips to Help Your Wyandottes Start Laying on Time: Proactive Steps for Success

Want to give your lovely Wyandottes the best chance at starting their laying career smoothly? Here are some practical tips I’ve found incredibly helpful:

Light Management:

If your pullets are maturing in the fall or winter, you need to trick their system into thinking the days are longer. This extra light stimulates those egg-laying hormones we talked about.

What to do: Install a simple light fixture in the coop. Use a standard incandescent or LED bulb (around 40 watts is usually sufficient for a small-to-medium coop). Put it on a timer to provide a consistent 14-16 hours of light per day. You can do this by having the light come on early in the morning before sunrise or stay on after sunset. Consistency is key!

Balanced Feed and Supplements:

Proper nutrition is non-negotiable for timely laying. Giving them the right feed provides the building blocks (protein) and the cement (calcium) needed to make eggs.

What to do: From hatching to about 18 weeks, feed a high-quality chick starter/grower feed (18-20% protein). Around 18 weeks, transition them gradually to a complete layer feed (16-18% protein, 3.5-4.5% calcium). Always provide free-choice access to oyster shell in a separate dish so they can take extra calcium as needed for strong shells. Avoid feeding excessive treats or kitchen scraps before they start laying, as this can fill them up without providing the necessary nutrients for egg development.

Reducing Stress in the Flock:

A calm, secure environment encourages laying. When hens feel safe and happy, their bodies can focus on the job of laying eggs instead of dealing with stress.

What to do: Ensure your coop and run are secure against predators. Provide adequate space – remember that 4 sq ft per bird inside the coop is a minimum, and more is always better, especially in the run. Create a consistent routine for feeding, watering, and egg collection. Provide multiple nesting boxes in a quiet, appealing location. If you have a mixed flock, ensure there’s no bullying preventing younger birds from accessing food or nesting areas.

Frequently Asked Questions on When Do Wyandottes Start Laying Eggs?

Let’s tackle some common questions I hear about Wyandotte laying:

Conclusion: Supporting Healthy, Timely Egg Laying in Wyandottes

Ultimately, knowing exactly when your Wyandottes will start laying isn’t an exact science, but understanding the typical timeline and the factors that influence it puts you in a great position. By providing excellent nutrition, a stress-free environment, and appropriate lighting, you’re giving your beautiful Wyandotte pullets the best possible start to their egg-laying journey. Be patient, observe your birds, and celebrate those first precious eggs when they arrive! It’s a truly rewarding moment in backyard chicken keeping.

Do you have Wyandottes? When did yours start laying? Share your experiences in the comments below! I’d love to hear from you.