Old Fashioned Broody Hen Hatch A Long and Informational Thread

[Blarneyeggs]

So today's news is, broody Momma got off the remaining two eggs, I'm sure she wanted to keep her eye on the hatchling rascal, so just one chick for us this time around. I really am surprised at how this whole deal has played with my emotions. I was a crazed woman last night battening down the hatches for the icy cold rain that came, as broody hen and chick are hardly protected in a dog pen. Got the whole thing covered with tarps, put down cardboard and lots of straw, and gathered what remaining bales I could find for insulation.

My other hens had an all out battle last night and we awoke to bleeding combs on a few of them - why can't they just get along? And why isn't my roo setting them straight? I'm so sad the last two eggs didn't make it.

 

[Miss Lydia]

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I'm sorry the other 2 didn't hatch, but thankful to hear you have 1 healthy little one. Spring will bring better results. and I wish we could have caught you on tape doing all of your prep last night.

Do you keep a light on in your coop at night? if so then their natural sleep pattern is disrupted and could be why they are fighting instead of sleeping.

 

[Blarneyeggs]

No light on in my coop. But... I'm no longer a 'new egg'. And so here is the little guy with Mom!! Yay!!! Heck, I'm going to try to post a pic of Dad!!

 

[BarnGoddess01]

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Congratulations!!!

 

[Miss Lydia]

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They are beautiful, and dad looks very proud.

 

[upcdayz]

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Awww! What a cute picture of the mother and her chick - and the proud papa, too. Glad you could finally post.

 

[upcdayz]

Here we are on day 22 1/2. I just went out to check the eggs but still no pipping yet, BUT I can hear a chick chirping inside one of them! Let's hope it's able to get out of it's shell o.k.

 

[Blarneyeggs]

This is SUCH great news upcdayz!! Congratulations! There were two days between when I heard my chick in the shell and when he made his debut - it was hard to wait.

 

[Miss Lydia]

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They have been getting out of their shells for eons, just try to relax and breathe. before you know it you'll see lil fuzzy butts running around. Mama will take care of everything!

 

[upcdayz]

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They have been getting out of their shells for eons, just try to relax and breathe. before you know it you'll see lil fuzzy butts running around. Mama will take care of everything!

It's hard waiting, though. I feel like a kid again, and that's enjoyable. AND we have a PIP now!