How it works
Chicks grow through a few clear stages: about 8 weeks as a brooder chick on starter feed, then a pullet growing out on grower feed, then point of lay, when the first eggs arrive. Point of lay varies by breed: fast-maturing hybrids like ISA Browns often start around 18–20 weeks, while heritage and bantam breeds can take 24–28 weeks or more.
How to use it
Enter the hatch date (or the day the chicks arrived, if close to hatch) and pick the closest breed type. You'll get the current age, growth stage, and a timeline from hatch through the expected point-of-lay window.
Reference chart
| Breed type | Typical point of lay |
|---|---|
| Production hybrids (ISA Brown, Golden Comet) | 18–20 weeks |
| Leghorn | 18–20 weeks |
| Standard dual-purpose (Rhode Island Red, Plymouth Rock) | 20–24 weeks |
| Heritage & large breeds (Orpington, Wyandotte, Brahma) | 24–28 weeks |
| Bantam / ornamental (Silkie and similar) | 24–28 weeks |
Frequently asked questions
How old is a chicken when it starts laying eggs?
Most hens start laying between 18 and 24 weeks old. Fast-maturing hybrids like ISA Browns are often earliest, around 18–20 weeks, while heritage and bantam breeds can take 24–28 weeks or longer.
When should chicks come off heat?
Most chicks are fully feathered and ready to leave supplemental heat around 6–8 weeks old, if daytime and nighttime temperatures are mild. In cold weather, keep heat available longer, especially at night.
When do you switch from starter to grower to layer feed?
Chick starter feed is typical for the first 6–8 weeks, grower feed from about 8 weeks until point of lay, and layer feed with added calcium once the first eggs appear or a couple of weeks before, whichever comes first.
Why hasn't my pullet started laying yet?
Point-of-lay windows are averages. Short daylight hours, stress, being underweight, or a breed on the slower end can all push the first-egg date later. Most healthy, well-fed pullets lay within a few weeks of the window.
Figures are typical values from university extension and breed-association guidance. Estimates only. Individual animals vary — confirm pregnancy and health questions with your veterinarian. Last reviewed 2026-09-21.