Broody Hens

[KO-KO-MO]

I have several hens that will not become broody and set on eggs. Is it possible to encourage a hen to become broody or is it just a nature thing?

 

[Attack Chicken]

It depends on what breeds you have. Most will wait until there is quiet a few eggs in the nest and then start to set.


What breeds do you have?

 

[KO-KO-MO]

RI reds!

 

[Attack Chicken]

They are not know to become broody. The production RIR have basically had the broodyness bred out of them. I do have a bantam rose comb RIR broody right now.

 

[biddyboo]

I had been told that Silkies are very broody, and after adding five to our diverse flock, I agree. Three are persistently broody and the other two "play" at it from time to time. We have two of them mothering our baby Araucana pullets now and they are fully engaged in their new "work." I know they are small birds, but I'm told they can do the trick, even with chicks that will grow bigger than they are. ~G

 

[4-H chicken mom]

and

from Ohio. If you want a broody hen, select a different breed. Most catalogs will tell you if they are a good broody or not. Good luck.

 

[eenie114]

Buff Orpingtons are great brooders. And,

 

[Cindiloohoo]