My little silkie hen looks like she's trying to go broody. I don't mind if she tries but will it just be a waste of time?
It is not the best time of year, obviously, but there are some photos on this forum of hens leading their chicks around in snow. Mama has a built in heater that can do the job. Personally, I'd give her some fertile eggs even in November. Editted to add: My latest are five weeks old and in a grow-out coop. Well ventilated and blocked from wind but unheated. Forecast is for below freezing Friday morning. They are a lot tougher than many people think.
I waited till now to set eggs. I don't like to have chicks in the summer-too hard to regulate temps especially here in Missouri. It is a lot easier to keep a chick warm than it is to cool it off! I have 19 3 week olds in the brooder and 22 eggs in the incubator.
I'm incubating now, it's inside so it is easier to regulate the temp but I would give it a try, the momma hen will keep them warm! Good luck!
