Difference Between Point of Lay and Point of Cage Layers Chicken

For many poultry buyers and small farmers in Lagos, understanding the difference between point of lay and point of cage layer chickens is important before purchasing birds. These terms are commonly used in poultry markets, but many buyers do not fully understand what they mean or how they affect egg production.

What point of lay chickens mean

Point of lay birds are young female chickens that are close to starting egg production but have not started laying yet. They are usually around 16 to 20 weeks old, depending on breed and feeding program.

Farmers prefer point of lay birds because they can monitor the birds from the start of their laying cycle and manage feeding and environment to maximize productivity.

What point of cage chickens mean

Point of cage layers are hens that are already laying eggs regularly. These birds have passed the early growth stage and are in active production. Buyers who want immediate egg supply often choose them.

Key differences between the two

• Production stage: Point of lay birds have not started laying; point of cage birds already produce eggs.
• Price: Point of cage birds usually cost more because they generate income immediately.
• Risk level: Point of lay birds carry some uncertainty since laying has not started yet.
• Management control: Point of lay birds allow farmers to manage feeding from early stage.

Why Lagos buyers choose differently

In Lagos, many small-scale farmers prefer point of cage birds because they want quick egg supply to recover costs fast. However, experienced farmers sometimes choose point of lay birds because they are cheaper and allow full control over feeding and health management.

Cost considerations

Price differences between these birds depend on feed costs, age, vaccination history, and transportation. When feed prices increase, point of cage birds become more expensive because sellers factor in production value.

Which option is better for beginners?

Beginners often find point of cage birds easier because they can start seeing results quickly. However, they should inspect birds carefully before purchase. You can learn freshness inspection principles from How to Tell If Chicken Is Truly Fresh or Just Thawed, which also teaches basic meat quality evaluation skills.

Factors to check before buying layer birds

• Bright eyes and active movement
• Clean feathers and healthy comb
• Proper vaccination history
• No signs of weakness or disease

Feeding and care differences

Point of lay birds need careful feeding with grower mash before switching to layer feed. Point of cage birds already require layer mash to maintain egg production. Improper feeding can reduce egg yield regardless of the type purchased.

Understanding poultry stages helps better decisions

Knowing poultry stages also helps when selecting birds for cooking or sale. For example, choosing the right poultry cuts matters for cooking results, as explained in Best Chicken Cuts for Stew, Pepper Soup, and Grilling.

Market supply patterns

Availability of point of lay or point of cage birds changes throughout the year depending on hatchery cycles and demand. During festive seasons, point of cage birds are harder to find because farmers keep them for egg production.

Where buyers can source quality birds

It is important to buy from reliable farms or verified suppliers. Buyers looking for available poultry stock can check verified listings through our available farm products page to compare options.

Related poultry knowledge

Understanding poultry selection also helps when choosing birds for cooking or events. For example, bulk poultry buying safety is explained in Fresh Chicken for Parties in Lagos: How to Buy in Bulk Safely.

Final thoughts

Point of lay and point of cage chickens serve different purposes. The right choice depends on your goals, budget, and production timeline. By understanding their differences, Lagos buyers can make better decisions and manage poultry investments more effectively.