How long Does it Take for Chickens to Mature?

Generally speaking, chickens are said to be adults when they reach the point of sexual 

maturity and begin laying eggs. This typically occurs when the chickens are between 16 

and 24 weeks of age, depending on breed, but even some individuals within a breed 

will develop more quickly or slowly than others. The ballpark age for when a young 

chicken is considered mature is 18 weeks.

Also Read: What is the Laying Cycle for A Chicken?

The Egg Laying Process

The life cycle of a chicken starts when an egg is formed within the body of a hen. The yolk 

forms inside the ovary, travels through the oviduct by way of the hen's vagina. The entire 

development and egg laying process takes 25 to 26 hours per egg. Once an egg has been

laid, it will take approximately 21 days after incubation begins to hatch into a fully developed 

chick. Healthy baby chicks are covered in soft downy feathers; their eyes are open when 

they hatch.

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Also Read: How to Deworm Chicken at your Chicken Farm?

Chick Growth and Development

Baby chicks shed their down and begin developing actual feathers when they are between 

3 and 6 weeks old. They will also begin to develop deep red combs and wattles. Growth can 

vary depending on breed, genetics and overall health, so talk to your veterinarian if you have

any concerns about the way your birds are developing. The average chicken will live between 

8 to 10 years.