How old do chickens get before going broody?

A truly broody strain or breed can start just a week or two after they first begin laying It really depends.


New Hampshires though aren't often known for going broody unless from heritage lines. (non-hatchery)


The reason Cochins and Silkies are said to be is because they're some of the few commonly found hatchery-source breeds that haven't had the trait bred out of them. Most common breeds can be VERY broody, moreso or equal to a Silkie, if you don't get them from hatchery originating stock

 

I would go with a silkie if you are wanting a broody hen. They go broody so often some people even call them living incubators.

 

Cochins are good too. I have both and the cochin covers a LOT more eggs My cochin went broody fast too. She laid a few eggs and decided she needed to me a mama.

 

My cochins are beautiful birds and they came from Mcmurray. They are the first birds people comment on. I have red, white and black. They have great personalities and are HUGE!

 

Buff orpingtons from cackle hatchery 5 out of 5 went broody after 15 months but 2 out of 5 Cochins :/did so some hatchery stuff are not all bad.................... and yes silkies are very broody sometimes three clutches if temps and moods are right