Is It Healthy?

[GuineaLady93]

If I can get one of my hens to go broody on some golf balls and let her sit on those for a week or so then put the eggs under her...is it ok for her to be broody that long? If its not why is it not healthy?
Thanks,
Ashley

 

[lowry075]

Hens can be broody for a week, just make sure she is eating and drinking. Broodies do not always get enough nourishment and they often lose weight. Added to that, it is warm or hot out (depending on your area) and they are sensitve to the heat. Keep her comfortable and she should do okay.

I have not heard that sitting on balls or fake eggs will cause a hen to go broody though. You may want to email a BYC member called Sourland who is noted for information on broodiness.

 

[mulewagon]

I leave fake eggs in the nest boxes to give them a hint - I've had several start brooding this year. I do leave them to sit a week or so to get them into the zone, so they don't mind when I sneak them one night into the broody pen. If they still sit there, I give them a dozen eggs.

Mine are Buff Orpingtons, and started brooding when over a year old.