Don't want my hens broody

[AmberLyn]

I have 5 hens 3 have gone broody I have a dirt floor kennel I have them in I dipped one in cool water and it didn't help . Normally I let them out during the day. But I live in the woods of Oklahoma so we have lots of hungry critters outside. I don't know where 2 are sitting so I'm keeping them kenneled how long will I have to continue this?

 

[igorsMistress]

It really depends on the hen, some will break in a few days and some it just takes longer. You can try adding a fan to blow some air under the broody girls to help cool them off too. Also, try to find the nests if you can. They'll pick a spot under something where they'll be protected when sitting and their eggs won't be seen by casual observers. If you can get rid of the eggs that also seems to help if they go back to the nest. Keep in mind eggs are often viable for 7-10 days after they're laid and this really seems to be the average for breaking a broody, if you're consistent with keeping them locked up and no access to nesting materials.

 

[Loving my girls]

Firstly I would like to say how I sympathise with your situation, broody hens are definitely a right royal pain in the vent.
I usually put mine in the dog cage as early as possible, depending on which hen it is depends on whether I leave them there for 3 or 5 days. If they go back into the nesting box afterwards they go back into the cage for another 5 days.
Remember broodyness is contagious so get the first one quick to reduce the risk of others joining in, also remember the issue is to get their temperature down.
Hope all settles down soon,
Hugz

 

[AmberLyn]

It really depends on the hen, some will break in a few days and some it just takes longer. You can try adding a fan to blow some air under the broody girls to help cool them off too. Also, try to find the nests if you can. They'll pick a spot under something where they'll be protected when sitting and their eggs won't be seen by casual observers. If you can get rid of the eggs that also seems to help if they go back to the nest. Keep in mind eggs are often viable for 7-10 days after they're laid and this really seems to be the average for breaking a broody, if you're consistent with keeping them locked up and no access to nesting materials.

I've added a fan during the day, I've looked for the nests and I can't find them I believe one is in a building it is unsafe to go in and no idea where the other is thanks

 

[igorsMistress]

I've added a fan during the day, I've looked for the nests and I can't find them I believe one is in a building it is unsafe to go in and no idea where the other is thanks

Definitely avoid the building! Keeping them in will help. Another thing you can do is just hang out outside and watch where they go. That’s how I found out where my broody was hiding, brats! Good luck, I hope the fan helps.

 

[21hens-incharge]

Are they where they cannot make a nest or sit comfortably like a raised wire bottom dog crate?

If they are on dirt they will build a nest right there or just stay plopped down and broody.

Gotta get that air under them as well so a raised wire bottom dog crate is often the best option.

You don't mention the breed(s). Some breeds tend toward perpetual broodiness.