Pullets vs. 18-Month-Old Hens: Which is Right for Your Flock?
When it comes to building or expanding your flock, the age of the hens you choose plays a significant role in their productivity, health, and how they fit into your long-term plans. Should you choose young pullets or opt for 18-month-old hens that are already laying? Let’s break it down to help you make an informed decision.
What Are Pullets?
Pullets are young hens between 8–18 weeks old that haven’t yet started laying eggs. At this age, they’re in the process of maturing and will typically begin laying around 18–20 weeks.
What About 18-Month-Old Hens?
These are hens that have already been through their first year of egg production. While they’ve proven themselves as layers, they’re also approaching the natural decline in productivity that happens as they age.
The Case for Pullets
When you choose pullets, you’re investing in young, healthy birds that will give you the full laying experience from the beginning. Here’s why pullets are a fantastic option:
1. Young and Vibrant: Pullets are just starting their journey and have their peak laying years ahead of them. With proper care, they’ll provide consistent eggs for 2–3 years before any noticeable decline.
2. Long-Term Investment: Since they’re still growing, you’ll enjoy several years of egg production before they reach the same stage as an 18-month-old hen.
3. Healthy Start: Pullets raised on high-quality feed and proper care, like ours, are robust and resilient, ensuring they thrive in their new home.
4. Social and Friendly: Raising hens from a young age allows you to bond with them, resulting in tamer, more approachable birds.
5. Laying Control: Pullets will start laying eggs under your care, ensuring optimal nutrition and comfort as they enter this important phase.
The Reality of 18-Month-Old Hens
At first glance, purchasing older hens might seem like a quick way to start collecting eggs, but there are important considerations:
1. Production Decline: Hens typically lay their most eggs during their first year. By 18 months, they’re nearing their first significant production slowdown, which means fewer eggs over time.
2. Molting Period: Around 18 months, hens naturally molt, shedding old feathers and growing new ones. During this time, they often stop laying altogether, leaving you with a few weeks (or more) without eggs.
3. Shorter Lifespan: Older hens have already spent a significant portion of their laying years. While they can still produce, their productivity and lifespan may be limited.
4. Health Concerns: Depending on how they’ve been raised, 18-month-old hens may come with health issues or reduced vigor, which could lead to additional care needs.
Why Our Pullets Are the Better Choice
When you choose our pullets, you’re getting young, well-raised hens that are ready to thrive in your backyard. We focus on providing healthy, strong birds that have been carefully nurtured on high-quality feed, ensuring they’re off to the best possible start. With pullets, you get the joy of watching them grow and the satisfaction of knowing they’ll soon begin their peak laying phase under your care.
Conclusion: Which Is Right for You?
If you’re looking for long-term egg production and a rewarding experience, pullets are the way to go. They provide a clean slate, fewer health risks, and a chance to enjoy the full lifecycle of a laying hen.
While 18-month-old hens can be a good short-term option, they’re best suited for those who are okay with lower egg production and the challenges that come with older birds.
For a productive and thriving flock, our pullets are ready to join your backyard and become a reliable source of fresh eggs for years to come.
Interested in starting your flock with pullets? Get in touch today!