First broody

[Yard full o' rocks]

Looks like I have my first ever broody. Going to try to move her to the broody pen tonight. Do any of you feed them anything differently during the brooding time (like chick feed or game starter). I was thinking that she might need higher protein since she would be eating so little (??)

Thanks in advance

 

[windtryst]

I just continue with regular feed, no big changes...a few treats now & then..they know what is best. The last few days mine don't eat much at all...

 

[McNugget]

I've got 2 that's gone broody this week. First time for me too. Earlier this spring I hatch 14 in an incubator. Now I'm goning to try it "a la natural", to see who's more successfull.

 

[speckledhen]

Scott, I usually feed them mostly the high protein scratch grains I use (Knockout Game Feed, 12% protein, little corn) along with some chick starter. The grains help keep her poop more solid-can't remember where I read to do that, maybe it was Storey's Guide to Raising Chickens. When the babies are about to pip, I just leave a chick feeder with the starter in it for her and the chicks. Sometimes, I do give her scrambled eggs as well.

 

[cybercat]

Congrats on your first broody. So far we have had four. I have not moved them and still feed my 20% protien feed to everyone. The broodies have been good leaving the nest to eat and drink so I do not mess to much with them only to collect eggs since non are fertile. Monday we get our new chicks in so they will raise them for me. Wish you the best on everything going good with move and her staying broody. Hope she hatches many chicks for you.