how many eggs can i put under my broody hen?

[shawkins]

I have a RIR that has gone broody. She's been sitting in the laying box for two days now (and not real happy when I collect eggs, i might add). I'd like to put her on some eggs but was wondering how many is too much? Can she sit on a dozen eggs?

I'm going to separate her from the rest of the flock in a small cage with food water and a nest box (and eggs of course). What else should i do for the chicken mother to be?

thanks,

 

[joe17]

try a dozen. She will know (and so will you) when there is too many eggs.

 

[Blubrd]

12 to 18. I've got 18 under my broody welsumer due in the next few days. Good luck.

 

[PunkinPeep]

Quote:
Just watch to make sure she gets up now and then. One of my new broodies pooped on her eggs at first because she was forgetting to get up off the nest. Once i know they're getting up on their own, i don't worry. They just sometimes have a hard time remembering at first. Once a day is enough, but she'll probably get up twice a day.

 

[shawkins]

Thanks for the advice. I am going to separate her today and put eggs under her. This is her first time and mine too, so I hope all goes well. I will let everyone know on the BYC msg board.

thanks