New hen going broody in the woods...Should I leave her alone ??

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dayers1109

dayers1109

Chirping
10 Years
Mar 4, 2013
10
0
75
Hi,
I have 6 young hens that are just starting to lay. Last night I noticed that one of them didn't come in - I let them every day.
This morning, when I let the others out, she came out of the woods near the pen where she stayed the night. (yes I was a little worried).

I'm pretty sure she is going broody and setting on egg(s) in the woods - I'll try to find her nest tonight to make sure.

I'm not seeing any predator activity around - I've eradicated the coons and there are none yet this summer. I live in Ohio - edge of rural and suburbia

I'm wondering if I should just leave her out and let her do her thing ?

Or should I try to move her back into the pen - set up a small house for her separate from the other hens?

If I find her nest - can I move the eggs ? Or let her just lay some new ones.

I've seen the roos mating with them so I'm pretty sure this is what's going on.

You folks are the best. Appreciate any advice ?
 
If they are just starting to lay, I'm not sure she's going broody. Usually my hens lay for at least a few months before they want to be mommas but, hey, anything is possible. I would move her as soon as possible if she is though. She probably will not last long in the woods. If you find her nest, than yes you can carefully move her eggs (make sure your hands are clean!) or you can just stick some others under her too. Best of luck!
 
Last edited:
I agree.
even though many hens have had successful hatches in isolated spots with no protection, it is not ideal.
but if she is broody, I would think he would stay the night on her nest. she's young though, so she may be getting used to being mama
 
Update - I cant find her ! I saw her last two days ago. When I let out the other birds - she came out of the woods and joined them. But now she's missing again. We looked all over in the trees and can find her at all. I'm fairly sure nothings got her or there would be feathers everywhere.

She must have found a really good hiding place.

For now, all I can do is wait and see if she shows up.

Hope she's OK.
 

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