how many eggs till gone broody

[chicktwit]

My RIR actually went broody & I found the nest in a bad location. I had to move the nest B4 the coyotes skunks possums & everything else found them. We got her in the chicken house & she stayed on 1 more night after she griped me out. I was concerned they were half to 3/4 ready & couldn't do them in. Luckily my freebie silkie/cochin took them over. They're in the garage 3 weeks old. I didn't want to raise chicks this time of year but they are cute. I'll never know if she could have pulled it off. I agree you can't go wrong if you get yourself a little silkie (pet quality) hen.

 

[chickenannie]

Yeah, we're having 35 degree temps (daily highs) and one hen has 8 chicks about 3 weeks old now. They free-range, and I'm amazed that they're all doing great. She gives them plenty of opportunities to warm up under her, but then they scurry around like normal despite the cold.

 

[mikarod]

Sometimes they are broody, sometimes they're not. I have a hen that every year will set in the winter (Negative temps). It's awesome...LOL. It'll always be during a huge snow or ice storm.

Anyway, my RIRs were always the broody ones. My Buff Orps were broody also. I have the BEST luck with Light Brahma hens...don't know why? I guess they're just made for setting! lol

That being said, I also have a Minorca that will set every spring/summer. If you take her off the nest...she won't eat, drink, poo. She MUST be on the nest 24/7. So she gets special treatment and gets food and water brought to her. Poor thing...she's such a good momma though!