What type Buff Orpington did you have that would not go broody?
There are several types. Hatchery types have been kept for production of hatchery eggs for so many generations that the instinct to go broody has been greatly reduced. Some exhibition lines have also seered clear of broodies. Thus few will produce hens that will go broody. Some hatchery and exhibition lines will see a clutch of eggs and start clucking! They are just wired to be broody. Climate and enviroment also have some effect on broodiness. We have a sole Black Cochin Bantam that will hatch anything. Last year it was Muscovy Ducks. This year White Orpington large fowl.
With over 30 years of having Orpingtons, I have found them to be excellent broodies. Yet not all have went broody. Even hatchmates have been different.
If you want a hen to go broody, you may try encouraging her with a clutch of nest eggs or store eggs. After she is broody you can switch eggs.
If what you want is a duel purpose breed, the Orpington would be perfect. Try acquiring from an exhibition type line. Theirs will be closer to the Standard and have more fullness and size. Hatchery stock will tend to be a bit under standard weight and more nervous, thus less broody. I would be happy to provide you a list of Orpington breeders. The American Orpington Poultry Fanciers has several excellent Buff Orpington Breeders. Just send me an email and I'll email you the list.
