How many eggs can you put under a broody?

[1WildHairL8tr]

Is there a rule of thumb?
I have 30 eggs coming (only ordered 18) and I have two broodies.
I thought 9 under each would be okay, but 15? I think: crushed mess.
Time to buy an incubator?
Thanks,
Cathi

 

[Chicken_Lover4567]

Well, in my opinion it all depends on what type of broody hen, and what type of eggs. What are the breed of chicks inside the eggs? And what breed to their "momma" ?

 

[Teresaann24]

I'd have to say it would have to be what size of hen you have and what size of eggs they are. I have a silkie hen she is very small but so are the eggs under her they are silkie eggs she has about 8 under her and even tho she is small she fits all 8 perfectly under her with no problem! I think she likes having more eggs this time then the 4 eggs she had last time!

 

[1WildHairL8tr]

Sorry, I should have posted that information!

The broodies are both Buff Orps.

The eggs are all supposed to be Standard Cochins.

Thanks,
Cathi

 

[Chicken_Lover4567]

I think theyt MIGHT be able to fit 15 eggs. I was just reading about Buff Orps and Cochins. Cochins eggs are medium size, Buff Orps eggs are large. So she might be able to fit 15.

 

[BantyHugger]

Don't count your eggs before they arrive. The PO plays baseball with FRAGILE packages. I think your BOs can handle whatever comes.

 

[1WildHairL8tr]

WOW! That would be great.

One is a big girl -- and she looks even bigger because she's all puffed up right now.

I'm assuming she will organize the eggs as she sees fit?

DUMB QUESTIONS, BUT, I CAN'T HELP MYSELF!!!: How will I know there are too many eggs under her? They won't be covered? She kicks some out? Will she stack them?

Thanks,
Cathi

 

[1WildHairL8tr]

Banty~
You're exactly right.
I hadn't even thought about that, but you are right.
I know they sent 30 eggs, but I don't know how many will actually arrive safely.
Here I am all worked up and about to spend big money on a bator that I probably won't even need.
Of course, I could always order more eggs....

 

[1WildHairL8tr]

Well, I got 30 eggs in the mail yesterday! Two were crushed -- thanks Mr. Postman for tossing the box over my 6ft. gate.

So, I am down to one broody. I have picked out 15 eggs for her to lay on.

How long can I keep the other 15 eggs? Can I just hang on to them in case another goes broody or should I just make an omelet?

I'm so excited! Can't wait to see more fluffy-butted cochins bouncing around!!!