On average, young female chickens start laying eggs around 18-22 weeks of age, but this can vary depending on breed, environment, and nutrition. Some chickens may start laying eggs as early as 16 to 18 weeks old, while others may take upwards of 28 to 32 weeks (closer to 8 months old) . Chickens that have historically been bred for the purpose of egg production often start laying eggs sooner, including Leghorns, Golden Comets, Sex Links, Rhode Island Reds, and Australorps. However, heavier breeds like Wyandottes, Orpingtons, and Barred Rocks are known to take a bit longer. The first few eggs a hen lays may be irregular, but after a week or so, egg production should become more consistent, with peak performance at about 30 weeks of age.