Can she be trusted?

[Staciaw755]

My mom has a broody hen that has been sitting for over 3 weeks. She was on 8 Silkie eggs but at about 12 days decided to take a break from sitting. My mom found the eggs cold. We out them in the incubator just incase there was hope. Well now the hen is still sitting after her 2 day break. If any of the eggs hatch can we give her chicks. Or is it to risky?

 

[Judy]

Hard to say. Broodiness is a hormonal thing and there's no telling what state she is in. I'd hatch all the chicks and slip them under her at night just after dark. Hopefully her instincts will kick in. Silkies have a reputation of making good mothers -- but in the end, they are individuals.