I have this one Lav Ameraucana hen I swear is more broody than my silkies. And we know how broody silkies can be. It started in March of this year. This hen sat on a clutch of eggs that did not hatch for unknown reasons. For about 2 months she went back to normal hen activites w/ the rest of the flock. Then in June it all began again. She sat on eggs raised a bunch of babies and when they were about 4 weeks old decided she had had enough. Then about 3-4 weeks later she went broody on me again. Sat on another clutch of eggs that hatched. One chick is left from that batch. She did the same thing basically told this chick it was on it's own at about 4 weeks old. But w/ this chick he/she has continued to stay close to momma even when she goes to lay an egg. Well the last few days in the evenings she hasn't been roosting but has going in the nesting box. She does come out during the day but I think if I left a bunch of eggs there for her she would probably stay on them and do her thing. Has anyone seen a hen be this broody? I love it since she's a natural incubator, but then again I hate it as well since I'm not getting any eggs from her.
Now, I currently have 2 other broodies. A silkie sitting on 3 eggs and another Lav Ameraucana sitting on 8 eggs. Both of these batch of eggs are due to hatch next week. I'm wondering if I should just go ahead and get some eggs for this hen to sit on and let her have another batch of babies. However, I'm a bit concerned if I do do this knowing her behavior it will start the cycle all over once those little ones hatch. What would you guys do? I know winter is coming and generally don't hatch chicks in the winter season. Although where I live I don't have to worry to much about cold, snowy winters. I have rain to worry about. And not knowing what this winter season will bring in regards to wet weather I'm a bit hesitant. In a way I look at it come spring time when people are wanting little ones I will have birds that are somewhat close to laying and I will know the sex and could sell them birds in which they will have eggs late spring/early summer instead of having to wait until fall/late fall of next year.
Your thoughts/comments are appreciated.
Thanks
Now, I currently have 2 other broodies. A silkie sitting on 3 eggs and another Lav Ameraucana sitting on 8 eggs. Both of these batch of eggs are due to hatch next week. I'm wondering if I should just go ahead and get some eggs for this hen to sit on and let her have another batch of babies. However, I'm a bit concerned if I do do this knowing her behavior it will start the cycle all over once those little ones hatch. What would you guys do? I know winter is coming and generally don't hatch chicks in the winter season. Although where I live I don't have to worry to much about cold, snowy winters. I have rain to worry about. And not knowing what this winter season will bring in regards to wet weather I'm a bit hesitant. In a way I look at it come spring time when people are wanting little ones I will have birds that are somewhat close to laying and I will know the sex and could sell them birds in which they will have eggs late spring/early summer instead of having to wait until fall/late fall of next year.
Your thoughts/comments are appreciated.
Thanks
we want to get some baby silkies next spring. good luck to ya 
