Broody Hen

[carlita23]

I've had a broody hen for about a month now, we don't have a rooster so she'll never be able to hatch any eggs. How long do I let this go on, or what can I do to snap her out of it? She's not laying any eggs and spends ALL day in the nesting box. And today I noticed her comb is pale, not as red as the others. She's an Auracana. Thanks for any help!

 

[LRH97]

I put my broodies is a dog crate with no bedding material. This way they can't really get "cozy" and make a nest. Some break in a couple of days, others could take a little over a week. This way has not failed me...yet. Just a future note: if you want a broody to hatch babies and you don't have a roo, you can purchase fertile eggs or attempt to have her adopt chicks. Good luck!

 

[carlita23]

Thanks for that info! I think I will try the crate! Also do you think that if I did get some fertilized eggs for her to hatch that once they hatch she will snap out of it?

 

[LRH97]

Thanks for that info! I think I will try the crate! Also do you think that if I did get some fertilized eggs for her to hatch that once they hatch she will snap out of it?

It really depends on the bird. Once the chicks hatch, she will care for them until she loses interest in them. Normally, the hen will return to her normal self after this. However, I've had several Silkies that would hatch a clutch and then want to hatch another right after. Then again, Silkies are notorious little feathered "incubators."