Broody Hen Thread!

[MelissaZeno]

Good luck to you. Thank you.

 

[MelissaZeno]

How old does a rooster need to be to fertilize eggs? My roo is 14 weeks old.

 

[fisherlady]

How old does a rooster need to be to fertilize eggs? My roo is 14 weeks old.

I don't believe I've ever heard of a specific age that is required.... basically if the cockerel is old enough to be interested and do the deed then he is most likely able to fertilize an egg.

 

[MelissaZeno]

Thank you. I haven't noticed him trying to do anything with the older hens.

 

[fisherlady]

Thank you. I haven't noticed him trying to do anything with the older hens.

Most of the young fellows are (rightfully) intimidated by the older hens at first... I often see them first trying their advances on pullets their own age or hens who are lower on the pecking order. They often avoid the older rooster's favorite hens also... if they don't the older roos will quickly correct their teenage hormones! I have seen some of my hens just downright beat the heck out of a teenager who's hormones got the better of his common sense!

 

[ochochicas]

People have posted that a 3 month old cockerel has tried to breed with a hen, although I think it is pretty uncommon at that age. Mine started up around 4 months, and by 5 months he had his group of girlfriends and pretty much ignores the hens that don't take kindly to his advances. Unfortunately I bought him to produce olive eggers, but my Marans hens don't want anything to do with him. Looks like I might have to get a different Roo.

 

[MelissaZeno]

Thank you, I will continue to keep my eyes open.

 

[Blooie]

Okay, stoopid question....which day counts as Day 1? The day we put them under the hen or 24 hours later then count from there?

 

[MelissaZeno]

It's a good question, I'd Like to know since my hens may eventually have their own hatches.

 

[ChickyChickens]

Okay, stoopid question....which day counts as Day 1? The day we put them under the hen or 24 hours later then count from there?

The same time, but the next day! I hope im right! Others??