Don't know anythng. Looking for help about brooding behavior from you experts.

[writer62]

Call me Writer62. I'm a total city slicker from the Big Apple, doing some research for an article I'm writing.

I'm totally clueless about chickens! Not that I'm anti-chicken, but I never expect to raise any myself. Actually, chickens aren't even my main topic, but I'm trying to verify something I read that was written over a century ago, before I quote it as fact.

• The claim was made that when hens brood they make a tremulous motion to stimulate the eggs/chicks.
• They are also said to have a small area of bare skin in contact with the little guys.
• It is further asserted that this is true of other species, such as eagles and doves.

Anyone know if these things are true?
What is the purpose of these things?
Are these universal facts?
Are there any source documents I can site, since I obviously don't know what I'm talking about?

Any input would be greatly appreciated, and is bound to be any improvement over the chili ad's conclusion: "New York City? Get a rope!"

Thanks again.

 

[Judy]

Don't know, yes they pull breast feathers for warmth and humidity for the eggs, don't know.

I think you'll appreciate this article:

http://www.themodernhomestead.us/article/Broody-Hens-1.html

Also, this is a loooong thread but it probably tells everything, one place or another:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/...ody-hen-hatch-a-long-and-informational-thread

 

[S&N Livestock]

from Ohio

 

[flgardengirl]

I don't know about the vibration thing but mine all make a broody patch by pulling their feathers that come into contact with the eggs.

Beware chickens are a slippery slope before you know it you'll have a coop full of broodys with cute little fluffy butt chicks

 

[b.hromada]

and

from S. Florida! So glad you joined us! Looks like you got some great help! Enjoy!