This morning I found where my first-time broody Wellie hen has hidden her nest. I had planned to move her tonight (and still am), but when I tried a little bit ago, she ran out of the kennel and back to her spot. It wasn't totally dark (I am now waiting until it is), but I'm a little stressed.
Looking for consolation...
If I move her now (in the dark), will she be able to settle in and stay on the eggs? I haven't ever moved any of my other broodies. I should add that we are at the lockdown stage of hatching, so it's do or die. She MUST be moved from where she is or the peeping of the chicks will attract all of the feral cats in the area. Not to mention the coyotes and raccoons. I am concerned she will panic and crunch all the eggs. Should I wait to put them in with her? I have my incubator warmed up just in case...
Crazy girl has 15 eggs under her!
Looking for consolation...
If I move her now (in the dark), will she be able to settle in and stay on the eggs? I haven't ever moved any of my other broodies. I should add that we are at the lockdown stage of hatching, so it's do or die. She MUST be moved from where she is or the peeping of the chicks will attract all of the feral cats in the area. Not to mention the coyotes and raccoons. I am concerned she will panic and crunch all the eggs. Should I wait to put them in with her? I have my incubator warmed up just in case...
Crazy girl has 15 eggs under her!