Is this a good sign?

[LaurenRitz]

I have eggs in lockdown and a broody hen. She's been fully broody for about two weeks, maybe a little under.

I went in the coop yesterday and she was "talking" like hens do when their eggs start to hatch.

She's currently sitting on two fake eggs, so they can't be talking to her.

Is this a good sign that she's ready for the babies when they hatch?

 

[igorsMistress]

I would say it is. That’s so sweet, I love when I hear my girls doing that. Best of luck!

 

[fluffycrow]

Potentially. Maybe? Good luck, and post photos when the bitties come!

 

[LaurenRitz]

One hatched yesterday evening. Today is hatch day. But now I have another concern.

I was pretty sure the other eggs were dead--one definitely was and I pulled it. The other I candled this morning, I can see the little beak pressing against the membrane and veins pulsing.

It's alive!

So I might get two. But if this one hatches in spite of my careless handling there'll be two or three days between them.

Should I wait and give her both, or risk raising one by itself if she rejects the younger?