Having lost out hybrid layers to the fox in summer, we bought 3 pure breed pullets late in August 2012, hoping they might start last year.
Well, they didn't
The Orpington squatted for me on Saturday, so I thought the first egg was a week to 10 days away. I was out all day Sunday, so didn't see them until I went out this morning and there in the nest box was the first egg, very small.
I suspect it was laid some time yesterday, because we got another this afternoon, slightly larger but still small.
I guess this post is just a bit of encouragement for those waiting or wondering when their hens may start laying, I know it can be frustrating if you have your first brood and are not sure what's going to happen.