Max Time Frame for a Broody Hen

[Chickenlady1440]

I have eight hens and one rooster. One of my hens went broody and we want baby chicks this spring. Rather than incubate, I decided to let my broody hen become a momma. She had 7 eggs under her, but upon candling today (day 10) none are fertilized. Should I break her from being broody at this point or can I start all over with new eggs under her?

I want to do what is best for her. I do have an incubator as an alternative. Thank you in advance for your help!

 

[PlymouthRockBBredSebright]

Give her some more ferile eggs....dont break mama's heart

 

[aart]

I have eight hens and one rooster. One of my hens went broody and we want baby chicks this spring. Rather than incubate, I decided to let my broody hen become a momma. She had 7 eggs under her, but upon candling today (day 10) none are fertilized. Should I break her from being broody at this point or can I start all over with new eggs under her?

I want to do what is best for her. I do have an incubator as an alternative. Thank you in advance for your help!

You could get some fertile eggs....or some day old chicks.
I wouldn't wait too long to do either.

Wonder why your boy is not doing his job?

 

[Chickenlady1440]

You could get some fertile eggs....or some day old chicks.
I wouldn't wait too long to do either.

Wonder why your boy is not doing his job?

I wondered the same thing.

 

[aart]

I wondered the same thing.

How old are your birds?
Have you been checking the yolks for fertility when you break them open to eat?

 

[Chickenlady1440]

How old are your birds?
Have you been checking the yolks for fertility when you break them open to eat?

My rooster is about 2 years old and the hens range from 8 months to 2 years old. I do believe I have had some fertile eggs when I cook them.

 

[aart]

My rooster is about 2 years old and the hens range from 8 months to 2 years old. I do believe I have had some fertile eggs when I cook them.

Where are you located?...he might have his 'spring vigor' yet.

 

[Chickenlady1440]

My rooster is about 2 years old and the hens range from 8 months to 2 years old. I do believe I have had some fertile eggs when I cook them.

Where are you located?...he might have his 'spring vigor' yet.

south Alabama