Need a good Laying/setting hen

[tlstueckler]

I'm new to the group and want to find a good brooding chicken. Can you help?

Would anyone out there know what a good breed of chicken is for both laying and setting? I have had chickens before and have gotten eggs, but never had a successful hatch or chicks. We have had several different roosters, but although they did the deed there were no chicks forthcoming. I had hens that would sit the eggs beyond the 21 days to hatch and nothing. I don't know if it had to do with the breed(s) or what. Any suggestions?

Thanks
Tara

 

[silkiechicken]

The best layers usually have broody genes bred out. The best setters will sit on eggs and not lay them for at least a month if not two, or even three while incubating and raising chicks. No controlling a broody when she wants to do her job or not.

Some notable good setters are silkies and cochins.

Keep a roo ratio of about 1:10 and eggs should be fertile. Just make sure the hen doesn't have too many eggs and that you candle to see if they develop or not.