Broody on eggs question...

[jossanne]

I've got a first-time broody on eggs. She has two mutt eggs that I gave her that are on day 18 today, and then she has 12 that I bought on here that are on day 14.

So my question is... if I let her hatch the two mutt eggs and then promptly remove them, how likely is it that she'll continue to set for another 4 days to hatch my silkie babies? Do I need to remove the two mutts before they hatch so she doesn't quit on me?

Thanks!

 

[Southern Chickens]

IMHO, I would take them from her before thay hatch, if you have somewhere to hatch them out. Once they hatch, I think "mommy mode" will kick in and she may leave the other eggs.

 

[SundownWaterfowl]

Quote:
Ditto.

 

[Southernbelle]

I agree that's the safest way - remove the mutts until everything hatches, then you can put them back with mama. I've heard of the other way working, too, but if you really want those Silkies - I wouldn't risk it.

Sending good vibes for a great hatch!

 

[jossanne]

I don't have somewhere else for the eggs to hatch. If I take them out, I am killing two nearly-ready babies...

 

[SundownWaterfowl]

Quote:
Well, then just leave them under her and hope for the best.

 

[Southern Chickens]

Quote:
Keep a close eye on them and snatch them when they are starting to hatch or have just hatch and put them in a box for a couple days until the siblings arive!

 

[jossanne]

I'm going to get an incubator put together today. I've been gathering supplies, and have everything except the 12 volt power source for the fan, so it will have to be a still air. Hopefully I can get it regulated quickly, and I'll pull the eggs out tomorrow. I really don't want to risk my eggs that I paid for, for two little mutt babies.

Thanks for the input, everyone!