Broody hen

[chantels1]

I have eggs in the incubator, due this weekend. My hen just went broody. Can I put them under her for less than a week?

 

[TheKindaFarmGal]

Is she a proven broody?

 

[chantels1]

No. That is why I am asking. 2 months ago was her firsdt time going broody. On the coop floor. I moved her, but she was stupid, and would not sit on any eggs. She would push them out.

This time she picked an actual nest box. Big improvement. I may put an infertile egg under her and see if she will sit on it. If she does, I might put the eggs under her.

If they hatch with her being broody less than a week, will she be ready to leave the nest or will she sit for 3 weeks?

 

[TheKindaFarmGal]

I'd try a few unfertile eggs and then probably put the chicks under her as they hatch, switching out an egg for a chick. How many eggs are there and how big and old is the hen?

She shouldn't stay on the nest for more than a day or two after the first one hatches. The chicks get stronger and start to explore and need food and water, so the broody goes with them.

 

[chantels1]

She is 1 year old. I have 8 eggs in the incubator. She is a smooth satin (or sizzle). Thanks for the info @TheKindaFarmGal

 

[TheKindaFarmGal]

Hope it goes well!

 

[Fanci Feathers Marans]

I put three eggs under a Marans hen that had been setting for only a week. They hatched the next day, and she took them right off.

 

[chantels1]

I put three eggs under a Marans hen that had been setting for only a week. They hatched the next day, and she took them right off.

Oh, that is great!!! I want to try it, but I am so worried too... I am going to get some eggs from a friend for her to hatch I think.