Silkies on their first broodiness and my first time

[Turtle]

I have two young silkies that just went broody for the first time. Its also my first time at this. I dont think they have left their nest for the last few days and have heard of hens dieing on the nest because they do not eat or drink. Do you think I need to worry about this or do you think they leave when I dont know to take care of themselves? I am very worried since this is our first time and these are also my first silkies. I got them just for this reason and do not want to lose any of my hens I only have three and love them dearly. any advice would be great. I am excited but scared for my hens.

 

[Cloverleaf Farm]

First of all, congrats!! I always put a little cup of water and pile of food in the nest box with my silkie when she's broody, or she will not leave it to eat and drink often enough. She's always happy to get room service though!!

 

[Turtle]

Quote:
Thank you. I am going to set out dishes for them today and hope they eat and drink, I have one hen and a rooster in there with them, will they bother the food and water? they have 13 eggs between them and my fingers are crossed.

 

[Cloverleaf Farm]

They might, just check it daily. The broodies will probably eat their fill as soon as you put it in there, leaving the leftovers for the rest...

 

[bigdawg]

one tell tale sign that they have gotten off the nest is the humongus pile off broody poop. trust me when you see it you will be glad you didnt step in it. huge. i mean huge.

 

[Turtle]

Quote:
I had to clean out the box today because of the huge poop. added some new straw. They didnt like that to well but put up with it.

 

[Turtle]

I have my first baby silky born today

I am a proud chicken grandma Pic to come

 

[Cloverleaf Farm]

Quote:
Yay!! My broody hatched hers yesterday!