Broody Hen

[zachstedman0103]

I currently have a broody hen sitting on some fertile eggs. The only problem is that she is in a nest box and when the chicks hatch there may not be sufficient space to move. Should I move her now or will it break her, or will I be able to move them once they have hatched?
Also, what do I need to provide once the eggs have hatched?

 

[bikerchix]

how long has she been broody? i give my hens several days to make sure they will stay broody then move them and the eggs to our small coop. i give the hen chick starter and water. after the eggs hatch make sure she's not attacking the chicks and mama hen will take it from there.

 

[PippinTheChicken]

Please join my Broody hatch-a-long!
I would love it if you joined in. Pippin is also on some eggs (well, they aren't fertile, but they are keeping her on the nest until her new eggs arrive!)

 

[PippinTheChicken]

Does the hen have to be moved? I'm keeping Pippin where she is, I'd like her chicks to grow up understanding the flock dynamics and pecking order so I don't have to integrate them. Make sure there are food and water bowls next to the hen!

 

[Melvins chicks]

My hen is setting on eggs in an egg box. How long will she stay setting to allow all eggs to hatch? I will need to lift chicks out of the box and hope she takes care of them. Should I mess with them and make sure they drink water right away?