broody hen and predator threat!

[Agustin]

Well i have a broody hen that has decided to make her nest in an unsafe location. So im worried she may be in danger of predators. I want her to have chicks but i dont want her in danger. I tried moving the nest but she won't stay in it if i move it soo are there any tips on moving her without her leaving the eggs.

 

[Ridgerunner]

Yeah, her breaking from being broody or just not accepting the move are your risks of moving her. You might try something like this.

First prepare a place for her. Build an area that is totally enclosed so she cannot get out and go back to her old nest. Just don’t give her that option. That area needs a nest, food and water, and some room to go poop without fouling her nest or the food and water. It obviously needs to be safe from predators.

Make the nest as dark as you reasonably can. Darkness seems to soothe them and make them think the nest is hidden. Or at least try to avoid bright light. And make sure the new nest is not a hot box where you will cook her and the eggs. A little ventilation up high is probably a good idea.

Once it is prepared, move her and the eggs at night using as little light and commotion as you can. I’d suggest even locking her in the new nest for most of the next day, keeping it as dark as you can without cooking her. A broody will normally stay on a nest practically all the time, only coming off once a day for food, water, and to relieve herself. Locking her in the nest for most of the following day is not really cruel.

I can’t give you any guarantees that this will work but I think I gives you the best chance. Good luck!

 

[redsoxs]

Ridgerunner gave you some great advice! Good luck to you!

 

[SobbaChickens]

Ridgerunner gave you some great advice! Good luck to you!

x2

 

[Agustin]

Ok thank you so much!