ghost eggs

[Katiekay]

Earlier this year we had a Back Australorpe sit in a box determined to brood a family. She was in the box for probably 35+/- days and would not stand for anybody to peek at what she may have under her. When she finally gave up we went to the box find nothing. No eggs no broken shells nothing. Nothing !

 

[SnowPeeOstrichU]

Hens will sit on nothing if they are broody.. I recommend a broody breaker to stop the cycle earlier.

 

[Katiekay]

Thanks for the info.
It has been several weeks since she gave up.
Do you think if we introduced fertile eggs she would sit again this soon?

 

[aart]

Thanks for the info.
It has been several weeks since she gave up.
Do you think if we introduced fertile eggs she would sit again this soon?

If she goes broody again, you could give her fertile eggs to hatch.
I'd let her get her strength back first.

Was she leaving the nest to eatdrinkpoop during the 35 days you just let her sit without managing things?

You really need to be able to observe what's going on under them, even if they try to take your fingers off.

Wear long sleeves and gloves and just do it, once they realize you won't hurt them they may calm down.....
......I know mine did and were much more manageable after wither being broken or hatching.