I want another broody :-)

[cluckygirl]

My silky hen is between 4 and 6 months old. Will she go broody?
What age does this usually happen?
She is laying eggs.
Is there anything I can do to encourage broodiness?
Thanks in advance xo

 

[chooks4life]

As for your first questions, the answer is that there are no guarantees, and the best indication is her family line's habits and even that guarantees nothing. Every chook is individual, to the degree of me not bothering hazarding guesses because of how worthless they are, sorry!

As for the last question, leaving her eggs in the nest, making her nest secure and a little hidden, removing social issues like bullying, and giving her a good diet can all encourage broodiness, but plenty of hens brood without any of that.

Best wishes.

 

[TwoCrows]

Hello there and welcome to BYC!

While Silkies are a broody breed, broodiness is controlled by hormones. You really can't encourage it much other than making the nest boxes a comfy place for her to brood her babies. Put up some curtains over the boxes, keep some fake eggs in the boxes and make sure your boxes are in the darker corner of the coop.

But 4 to 6 months of age is a bit young yet to go broody. Let her age a bit. She is not yet fully developed. I would bet by this spring or summer she goes broody.

Good luck with her and welcome to our flock!

 

[Wyandottes7]

Welcome to BYC!

We're glad to have you.

 

[BantamLover21]

Glad you joined us!

 

[drumstick diva]

Yes, your silky is young. Give her a chance, first time broodies may not be reliable - but, over time they can develop into great broodies.

 

[Mountain Peeps]

Welcome to BYC! Please make yourself at home and we are here to help.

X2 on Two Crows.

 

[Book Em Danno25]

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC!

 

[Kelsie2290]

Hello and Welcome To BYC!