First time broody

[Jacqdiva]

How long should a first time broody sit before you give her real eggs to sit on? Henrietta is a white Wyandotte and was sitting on six plastic eggs, plus one of hers. I swapped plastic eggs for a selection of everyone else in the flock. She has eight real eggs now, and is still on them today. Hope I have done right??? Too keen??? I have REALLY wanted a broody in my flock. First time for her and I......:/

 

[chickengeorgeto]

I usually let a hen sit for at least 4 days before I give her eggs to hatch. I don't want the hen laying her own eggs in the nest and potentially corrupting a valuable line bred blood line. Even though all my eggs are well marked before I set them, why take a chance?

Are you sure Henrietta won't leave the nest with the chick that has a head start and leave your other 7 chicks to die in the egg?

 

[Jacqdiva]

Well we got them under her within hours. I was quick to act after sundown!

 

[iwiw60]

Here's a very nice page which might help to explain the ins and outs for you on your broody:

http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/search?q=broody+hatch

Best of luck to you and your hen...keep us updated!!

 

[Jacqdiva]

Thank you so much. I will.