Different hatch dates

[JConboy]

Help! Can a broody hen lay on eggs that have different hatching dates? Our hen was on some and we were asked to take some others on as the broody was taken to a new home which didn't want the chicks. Now not sure of dates of her own and new. Have I caused a big problem for my lovely lady? Thank you :/

 

[sourland]

What will very likely happen is that she will leave the nest with the first chicks that hatch. By removing them you MAY get her to continue brooding until all eggs have hatched.

 

[JConboy]

Thank you. I am going to try and candle the eggs soon try eliminate any infertile ones anyway. Thanks for responding. X

 

[esther5]

do you have any other hens? i have just made 2 hens go broody following advice from this forum and it has worked a treat. it only took a few days and i'd had both hens for a year and never had them go broody before. both are breeds that make good broodies however.
just an idea.