Broody Hen or Something Else?

[Ruthster55]

Yes. And I usually "break" those that are undecided as well, just to make sure they don't decide to go ahead and commit. But it's always great when they decide that nah, they don't need to sit after all.

Some breeds are equivocal while others make a serious commitment to increase the number of straight-run chicks on your property. They certainly evaluate the security features of the run before setting!! They love a safe place and seeing other broody hens!

No matter whether you have No Incubator or the Worst Incubator or a huge well-practiced GQF.... once you have missed collecting eggs a few times, if that hen has a Spidey Sense that her run is safe, then it’s “Game On!”

 

[Ruthster55]

P.S. Don’t do anything special. She will go off the nesting box, probably to eat, drink water, and maybe leave a yucky broody poop. A determined broody may hide her food and water needs and sneak out for a bite when you’re not there.

The best thing is to just leave her alone with the eggs you know she has. During the first day or two, yes, make sure she is on eggs. Easiest at night.

Note the date you first saw her and count forward to 21 days but let her go as far as 25 or 26 days with longer hatch times in cooler weather or at altitude.

Those experienced can candle at night at the appropriate times, but try not to mess her up if she’s in lockdown....