I think so, the color is especially telling from my little experience. The brighter the red the sooner to lay.

-Sheila

Well, I think I'd better start thinking like a chicken and looking for hiding spots if that's the case! Thanks!

--Johanna

Its a sign of maturing,some birds will develop combs sooner than others; eggs come at roughly 6 months, give or take.

When I see mature hens with bright combs, I suspect they may not be egging. Egging takes a lot of nutrients out of a chicken, and the heavy layers usually have the lightest combs.

Calliope--

That's an interesting observation. Mine are not quite five months old, so I don't think it applies to them, but I'll watch out!

--Johanna