Is it possible for a young chick to exhibit "broody" tendancies?

[orcasislandchickens]

I caught 3 of my little week old chicks scratching up the shavings like mad. Then they stood together picking at and arranging the shavings. Then they stomped them down a bit before they wiggled and settled into place in the soft comfy little "nests" they had made.
Any chance this means these three might be female? If they are is this an indication of strong mothering instincts?

Since mine are streight run I am always hoping to tell at least a few of the hens. Also one of the people interested in taking of few of the extras off my hands wants them for broody hens so I'd separate these out if it might be worth the effort.


Any one who has experience with breeding and raising poultry please chime in.

 

[Year of the Rooster]

Sorry, I don't have experience with raising or breeding poultry, but some people have posted that their roosters with scratch around in the nest box then sit down in it. Probably to show the hens where to lay or that it is a great laying spot, etc etc. Sorry if this puts you down a little bit, but I thought I'd let you know. If you post pics then we would be able to help identify them for you

 

[orcasislandchickens]

Rats!

 

[keljonma]

Week old chicks can't go broody and you can't tell whether a pullet or hen will go broody by looking at it.

 

[silkiechicken]

Sounds like a relaxing dust bath.

 

[orcasislandchickens]

Will they dust bathe in shavings? Yes I guess that is probably what they were doing. Since I can only keep a few (like 3-4, and no roos) I am hoping to sex at least a few of these as my future hens and move the others along. I spin rings, look for minor color variations, watch how they stand and play. None of it helps much. Since ending up with too few hens defeats the whole purpose of this order I'll probably have 16 till they crow or lay.

Dang this patience bit is hard.

On the upside they are Sooo cute. Endless entertainment.