Breaking broody hen at day 14/15?

[sareydoll]

My poor girl laid four eggs, and when I checked yesterday (day 14) and, holding out hope, today, I saw no movement in any of them when I candled. She has been such a good little mama, and I’m so sad to have to take them. I’m worried that since she’s been broody for so long, taking all of them at one time will stress her out. Any suggestions on either gently breaking her, or should I just bite the bullet and sneak in a chick for her?

 

[chrissynemetz]

If you don't mind adding a few more to your flock, I think I would wait another week, then put a couple of chicks beneath her.

 

[aart]

I saw no movement in any of them when I candled.

Absolutely clear with no development at all or just no movement?

or should I just bite the bullet and sneaking in a chick for her?

Probably best to give her at least 2-3.

 

[sareydoll]

Absolutely clear with no development at all or just no movement?


Probably best to give her at least 2-3.

No movement. It literally happened overnight. Any idea why or how that happened? They were growing so well and were very active.

What day do you think I should sneak them in?

 

[sareydoll]

If you don't mind adding a few more to your flock, I think I would wait another week, then put a couple of chicks beneath her.

Chicken math tells me when I get to the feed store a couple will become 6.

 

[aart]

No movement. It literally happened overnight. Any idea why or how that happened? They were growing so well and were very active.

What day do you think I should sneak them in?

They don't always move when candling, especially the closer to hatch day.
I would wait and see it thru day 22-23, then if none hatch get some day old chicks to give her.

 

[sareydoll]

They don't always move when candling, especially the closer to hatch day.
I would wait and see it thru day 22-23, then if none hatch get some day old chicks to give her.

Will do! Thanks for the advice.