broody never leaves nest

[snowflake]

my broody has been sitting for 3 weeks she only seems to leave the nest when I take her off every night to try to get her to eat and drink. I just offered her a worm and she totally ignored me. when I take her off she will eat a little,very little' doesn't drink or relieve her self and gets back on the nest. I am concerned she isn't getting enough nutrition. this is the first time for both of us. Any suggestions?

 

[whytedragon]

Mine have been broody for about 18 days..the eggs have started pipping today. I rarely have seen them out, maybe twice for each. They know what they're doing, so i've just left them alone.

 

[MandyH]

They know when they need to get up, and will do so when they are ready. Just leave her alone and she will take care of things.

 

[snowflake]

Thanks, I needed some reassurance

I don't want her to starve. ....I thought it took 21 days, You are already getting pips at 18 days?

 

[Hennie]

Hi snowflake
Mine hatched at 20 days, I was also worried, when the hen didn't get off the nest, so I used to lift her off carefully, making sure, she didn't have an egg under her wing and she would eat only a small amount not drink, but she did relieve herself most of the time and after 15 min. she would run back to her nest. I did that for the first 2 weeks, after that I left her alone. 4 babies hatched on day 20 and they are gorgeous and 6 weeks old tomorrow. 2 of the eggs were clear. I hope this helps, I'm sure all would have worked out without my interference though.

Hennie

 

[snowflake]

thanks Hennie! That helps