Co-Broodys

[racuda]

I have 2 hens sitting on the same nest, containing a dozen eggs. One started sitting on Saturday, and the other joined her yesterday. They are side by side in the same nest box. They are bantam Cochins. One is a 8 month old pullet and the other is a year old hen.

Can they continue like this or should I remove one?

 

[LarryPQ]

I would crate them seperately, if possible. Wait until night time to move them, an dmake sure the broodies have food and water they can reach.

 

[racuda]

Quote:
Do you mean to split up the eggs between them? Either one could cover them all.

 

[LarryPQ]

Hmm...I figured one was sitting on one clutch, and another on a second. If the new broody doesn't have any eggs, she could still be laying (and #1 stealing them).

I would leave 12 under broody #1 and then see if broody #2 lays a few more. If you don't see any eggs under her after a day or two, and she is still determined, I guess you could give her a fresh egg or two to try.