First time....

[Jashdon]

We were hoping to have one of our hens hatch some eggs this summer. Our Barred Rock rooster is just starting to mate with our younger pullets so we put him in the run with the laying hens. Is there anything special we need to do to encourage one of the girls to sit on some eggs? Will they do it in the coop with the others or should I make a smaller dog house type structure for more privacy? Any advice is appreciated. This is our first year with chickens. Thanks!

 

[Dawn419]

You can try using fake eggs (golf balls, plastic eggs) to induce a hen to go broody for you.

I've read that it is best to have a separate area for a broody hen and her chicks but "sometimes" the flock will accept the new additions.

Hope this is some help!


Dawn