moving eggs in a nest

[shyanne]

Our hen just layed for her first time 2 eggs. However, her location is not the best because of the cold (we are in Los Angeles but it has been really cold lately) and the predators (racoons and hawks). Can I move the eggs to another location? Will she abandon the nest?

 

[justusnak]

Is she trying to brood them? Setting on them continuously?? Is she is broody...I would place her in a location with the nest and all...where she will be safe. If she is NOT broody...well...no matter, take the eggs and enjoy!

 

[shyanne]

I don't think she has enough eggs to be broody yet. Doesn't she need a clutch of eggs before she will lay on them. There is only 2 eggs and she is definately protecting them since she got upset when my dog went near. Maybe I should wait to see if she will lay on them and then you are suggesting moving her and the eggs to a safer place. Does that sound right.
Thanks

 

[justusnak]

I would get her into a smaller pen...maybe a dog crate...with the opriginal nest and eggs, if possible. Put food and water in there with her. Just watch her. If she paces, and stays off the nest...she is not ready to be broody. Not all hens need large clutches to set. I had one set on ONE egg....all she "needed"