Help! I'm suffering from chicken math dementia!!

[bhawk-23]

I just cannot deny my broody hens from hatching their own! One broody is fine but now I have two more. I have homes for any extra pullets (we only have so much space and I am ok with letting them go) and we understand what needs to be done with extra cockerels (already have done the deed) but...... I NEED to learn how to say no!! Please help!

Posted as I search the internet for a small hutch to set inside the run for the 2 broody sisters

 

[FeatheredFriends&Horses2]

I know, chicken math is a problem! Have you had your broody hens hatch out any eggs in the past? And what breed are they? Just curious, because out of the 4 or so clutches of 6-8 eggs I've let my standard hens set, I've only gotten one chick. Not sure if it was because my rooster at the time was somewhat of a dud, the hens have had to much of their motherly instincts bred out of them, or my set-up just didn't work.

 

[bhawk-23]

I know, chicken math is a problem! Have you had your broody hens hatch out any eggs in the past? And what breed are they? Just curious, because out of the 4 or so clutches of 6-8 eggs I've let my standard hens set, I've only gotten one chick. Not sure if it was because my rooster at the time was somewhat of a dud, the hens have had to much of their motherly instincts bred out of them, or my set-up just didn't work.

Yes, this same hen went broody last October. She was a wonderful Mama! Hatched all 12 eggs and raised them perfectly. All survived to make it to new homes or the freezer. We did hardly nothing! But this hatch, same mama, is not going as well. We have a smaller one what hatched 24 hrs after the others and is not doing well. So now I'm nervous of the eggs I just bought for another Broody. I'll keep an eye on the little one struggling and continue to feed him to hopefully keep his strength enough to stay with the rest.