Broody Hens

[bcarthen]

Looking for some advice. I have three hens that have decided to go broody at the same time. 2 of them are proven mothers. My question.... Is it to late in the season to let sit on eggs to hatch? Winter is coming. I am in central North Carolina. Will mom be able to keep them warm enough after hatch should we get an early cold snap?

 

[Maeschak]

I'm not sure it is the best time to hatch chicks but a mother hen can definitely keep those baby chicks warm no matter what the temperature! If however, the mother should quit caring for the babies it will be all that much harder for you to brood the babies. But how cold does it get down there in winter?

One good thing about having chicks with a mom during winter is that the chicks will feather out more quickly. They will run and play until they get too cold and then huddle under momma until their core temperature is high enough... Then run and play again. Rinse and repeat.

 

[bcarthen]

I'm not sure it is the best time to hatch chicks but a mother hen can definitely keep those baby chicks warm no matter what the temperature! If however, the mother should quit caring for the babies it will be all that much harder for you to brood the babies. But how cold does it get down there in winter?

One good thing about having chicks with a mom during winter is that the chicks will feather out more quickly. They will run and play until they get too cold and then huddle under momma until their core temperature is high enough... Then run and play again. Rinse and repeat.

It varies here. We have mostly mild winters with lows around 20's. But we have not had a harsh winter in 3-4 years so i figure that we are due anytime now.

 

[Redhead Rae]

could you set up a warmer "broody area" for them? that might help after the eggs hatch. I have a pullet who is looking like she may go broody and I will give her eggs if she does. I just need to put together a new broody area because my current setup is occupied.