Hatching Eggs With Broody Hen

[mmccarthy781]

Hi everyone,
So my buff orpington just went broody for the first time 3 days ago, and I decided to use this opportunity to have her hatch some new chicks! I've never hatched any chicks so I'm just wondering how to go about this the best way. I've already ordered 6 lavender orpington eggs to put under her. I only have 3 hens right now, and there isn't any way to separate her from the other 2, but I think she'll be fine as the other two have always been friendly, she's been staying in the nesting box. Now is this as simple as slipping the eggs under her during the night? Should I change her food now that she's brooding and not laying? Lastly, once the eggs hatch, will she take care of the chicks? Can I keep the chicks with the 3 hens and the broody hen will protect and care for them?

Thanks!
Mike

 

[LRH97]

Hatching eggs with a broody is the best and easiest way to do it, in my opinion. It is always best to separate a broody from the rest of the flock, (an old dog crate or medium pet carrier works wonders!) but if this is not at all possible, you will want to move the nest box, or make something, on the ground so no chicks will fall out of the nest when they hatch. They also will need to be able to get back under momma or they will chill and die. Upon receiving the eggs from the Post Office, you will want to allow them to rest for at least 12 hours POINTY side down before putting them under the hen for incubation. As for putting the eggs under her, it is just as simple as it sounds. I've done it at night and during the day. They pretty much just like to sit on anything that looks like an egg. You don't have to switch feeds right now, but feed only starter to the "family" when the chicks hatch. The broody will do all the work; teach them to eat and forage, protect them, and keep them warm. I will warn you, some hens can be downright ruthless to chicks, so keep a VERY close eye on the non broody birds. My birds aren't very nice to the broody hens themselves. Also watch to see if any of the others are trying to shove her out of the nest. Remember it is two against one and momma hen can do only so much to protect her babies. Best of luck!