[gsc]

What can I expect in terms of how long my girls will lay?

I've read some articles which suggest the hydrids aren't worth keeping for much more than a year - which would be a shame - but at what point do they become 'just a pet' and for how long?

If a hybrid is laying almost an egg a day in her first year, what would be a typical pattern after that to the point where they pop their clogs of old age?

[joyfull]

it depends on the breed/type of hybrid. Most hybrids will lay well for a couple of years (my amberlink is 3 and still laying most days although she did ease up last winter), and my blackrock and cuckoo maran still lay 5 a week. Pure breeds can go on for years but they lay less per week. All hens will lay roughly the same amount of eggs but over a different time span - some treat it like a race to get rid of them and others treat it like a gentle stroll and just pop a few out every now and then.

[gsc]

Thank you Joyfull.

How long should I expect my hydrids to live for, roughly? I have an Amberlink, Black Star, Columbine and Bluebell.

And I've just bought another coop second hand locally - it was going with all the drinkers wormers feed etc. I couldn't resist    Just wait till I tell hubby   I need to pick my moment.

[joyfull]

with good care and provided they are in good health 5+ is not unusual (some breeds will live to over 10) 

[gsc]

with good care and provided they are in good health 5+ is not unusual (some breeds will live to over 10) 

Wow - which breeds can make it to 10 then?  I guess that would be good for the grandkids - less upheavful if they get attached.

[joyfull]

pure breeds are best for this, the father of some of my araucanas was 11 I think (and this was only due to a fox attack - but until then he had still been performing well    ) and not too long ago Hillfooter lost his girl who was over 10 as well.

[gsc]

Oh boy - now my mind is turning to pure breeds - I can see why this is addictive. 

[joyfull]

if ever you get over this way then get in touch and me and Grannie Annie (just a couple of miles down the road) can show you a few varieties pure breeds 

[gsc]

I guess it would take me over 2 hours to reach you.  Such a shame you are not nearer but thanks for your very kind offer.

Maybe I will get a bit closer sometime - it would be nice to meet you both.