Sage is sitting it out

[cliffs_coop]

I have a Hen "Sage" we call her. Sage-is a year old and she has been sitting in her nesting box all week long, and I never see her out with the other chickens.
she gets on the defensive when I open the box and get the eggs . I tried lifting her off the nest to get the eggs, but she would not leave. and she appeared to have no feathers on her belly. Its like she has finally decided to hatch an egg. My question is what is this type of behavior called ? and would what if anything should I do. further more,is this a good time to introduce new chicks to the flock, provided I could talk the wife into it.
Thank you
Cliff

 

[jjthink]

Likely she has gone broody, which means she intends to hatch those eggs.

You can use the "Search" feature up above to read threads about your options when a hen has decided to get maternal. Do make sure she gets enough food and water.

JJ

 

[Stingrayg4]

She's definitely broody. Give her some eggs, she'll do the rest.

-S