Questions about broody

[lilstarshine7]

I have 2 cochin hens, about 4 months old. I also have a cochin rooster same age. I wanted a breed of chicken that will hatch there eggs, broody I guess is what you call that...lol. My question is when are they ready to start laying and what signs do I look for? Also when they do start sitting on there eggs, do I have to remove the rooster or can he stay in the coop? Sorry for all the questions, but I am new to this and well you dont learn if you dont ask. Thank you.

 

[VABeachBRs]

When my pullets get ready to lay they are always seeking a nice quiet spot away from the others. Usually, they stay in the nesting boxes when I let them out in the morning (mine free range).

I am not certain about brooding with a roo in the coop. My broodies have always looked for a quiet place away from EVERYONE (not just roos). They get angry if there are any other chickens around. Unless they have a brooding buddy who helps them while they are away, then they rotate or both sit on the eggs.

Has anyone else had experience with roosters in a broody coop?

 

[lilstarshine7]

When do you know they are preparing to lay? Do I need to introduce the nesting boxes now? Sorry for all the questions, but I want to do this right. I have a seperate cage I can put her in if I need to. Any advice would be most helpful, thank you.