Separate broody hen?

[Stephaniejoy]

I have a broody hen for the first time. I had read that she should be separated. So we built her a pen and little shelter. I have since read that I don't need to. She has been sitting almost 2 weeks. Eggs are marked, etc. What is the best thing to do?

 

[SamuelMcF]

She will be fine with them while she is incubating. The issue is when the chicks go to hatch as other chickens can be difficult and hurt the chicks. It depends on how protective of a mother the hen is as well and if she can take care of them so the others don't hurt the chicks. I always separate but that is just because I worry too much. If you are in a position to watch really closely on hatch day to make sure the chicks are in good shape then you can leave them in.

 

[waddlehead]

I made the mistake of leaving my broody in and all but 2 of my hens ended up going broody. Now it has ended up in a beautiful coparenting scenario. However, I had to buy eggs to eat! Not cool... If you can I'd put a small coop and run in where the rest are. That way she can keep her place in the pecking order. Also, it makes integrating easier.

 

[Stephaniejoy]

Thank you for the advice. I am also a worrier and noticed this morning 2 more are broody. Gonna move her to her own little spot. It is adjacent to the main coop/pen so hopefully will help with rejoining the rest of the flock.

 

[chickiebaby1]

I have this problem right now too. I had one broody hen on Monday and decided to just let her stay where she was till I could get a maternity ward set up, when I went out last night she now has another hen sharing the nest with her, so now I have 2 broody. I don't mind, but just trying to find safe places for them to brood and raise their babies is my worry. I didn't realize it could cause more to go broody.

 

[Abby1116]

Would anyone mind sharing photos of their setup? We have a broody Cochin bantam that we are trying to break and I’m contemplating letting her hatch some eggs next spring if she keeps at this. Would love to see how you have them separated or what setup you use for the hen and chicks.