Broody hen

[Chicks Galore3]

I would like to have a broody hen hatch some eggs next year, and I would like to know how to tell if the hen will be a good mother. Not breaking eggs, not leaving the nest, etc. I have a EE hen who has gone broody several times and once it took her several months to break. I think I would use her. Any tips on raising chicks with a broody? (I have read several articles, one by myfivegirls which was very helpful!)

 

[Johnn]

This is a great thread for any questions about broodys, i learnt alot from it! you will get a quick responce form very experienced people https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/...ody-hen-hatch-a-long-and-informational-thread

 

[Chicks Galore3]

Thank you Johnn! I'll check it out.

 

[Becci]

Always let a 'broody' sit on golf balls or fake eggs a few days before giving her real eggs. If she stays on the fake eggs, she'll most likely sit throughout the 21 +/- days. If she's constantly getting up, roosting with the others, etc, she's not ready.

I always separate my broodies from the rest of the flock. I don't dare let chicks hatch in the breeder pens. Last time that happened, all but one chick were killed and that one was severely mangled. Plus, my hens tend to fight over nest boxes and I've had developing eggs broken that way. Not fun. Also be sure the water bowls are low enough for the babies to reach. Good luck!

 

[Chicks Galore3]

Thank you! How many eggs would you suggest putting under a broody?

 

[Becci]

It all depends on the size of the bird and the size of the egg. Bantams may have trouble covering 3-5 large eggs while large fluffy breeds can easily cover 12+ large eggs. Be sure she can completely cover the eggs and still have room for a couple more.

 

[Chicks Galore3]

It all depends on the size of the bird and the size of the egg. Bantams may have trouble covering 3-5 large eggs while large fluffy breeds can easily cover 12+ large eggs. Be sure she can completely cover the eggs and still have room for a couple more.

Ok. She is a pretty big chicken.

 

[wangna]

Thank you Johnn!





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