3 broody hens

[My Gal Pals]

I currently have 3 broody hens. One is on day 14 of sitting on 13 eggs. The other two just started their broody behavior in the last three days. At this point, I don’t want any more chicks than the 13 already developing…would it be possible to split the original clutch between the 3 hens? Is there any reason I shouldn’t try this? Or should I just “break” the other two broodies?

 

[thecatumbrella]

Replying so someone more experienced might see this.

I am super new to all things broody, but my understanding is that 13 eggs is at the upper limit of what one hen can manage. Is she a larger girl (like an Orpington?) or a smaller breed?

I can understand wanting to split the eggs between broodies, but at the same time, she's been doing a great job sitting for 14 days. Another broody might quit on you if she gets bored.