Tyson's announced weeks ago that had no effect; they had already replaced birds wiped out by the epidemic. Chickens, like rabbits, have pretty high population explosions. The 'Big Giant Epidemic' lasted about 5 to 6 months.
On average, a pullet will begin to lay an egg around 5-6 months of age. You may get lucky and start receiving eggs as early as 16-18 weeks, or have to wait a long 28-32 weeks before you receive your first egg. However, most pullets will begin to lay their first egg between 20-24 weeks.
At what age does a hen begin to lay eggs? How often each day can a chicken lay an egg? Learn about how what age and how often a chicken lays.
blog.meyerhatchery.com
Just good old fashioned price gouging, nothing to see here.