Newbie with first time broody, I'm confused!

[Happy Chooks]

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I'd give her at least 2 eggs so if that one doesn't develop or quits, she's not sitting for 3 weeks then having to start over again.

 

[elmo]

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It's not the best time of year to be letting a hen go broody, but of course that's up to you. Personally, I like to have chicks hatching out in the spring, when it's easiest.

Skill at incubation and motherhood is individual. There's no way to tell whether this particular hen is going to be good at either one. You'll just have to wait and see. Usually a hen will set for about a week after the 21 days is up, but this is variable, also. Some give up early, some never give up.

Good luck!

 

[poseygrace]

I'd slip a couple more eggs under her tomorrow. She will be heartbroken if the one doesn't hatch. A day won't make too much difference. Some broodies are great mothers, others are not. You will find out! If she is good she will stay the 21 days till they hatch. If none hatch, you will need to take the eggs away and encourage her to leave.

I've never raised chicks in cold weather, but it's true she will keep them warm. That's another reason to have more than one baby. They will huddle together as well, especially after she leaves them.

 

[MydearWatson]

Thanks for your help everyone, it is SO appreciated. Well, I ended up taking her inside and gave her 4 eggs, just one hatched so she is a Momma now. Its not her biological baby but she doesnt seem to care!

Fingers crossed that our new little Noel is a girl and that the integration process for both Mom and baby go well when the time is right.

 

[Happy Chooks]

Congrats!

 

[SilkieChickenLover336]

CONGRATSSS