My 1 year old Aussie has gone broodie three times this summer, each lasting about a week. Real pain, since they won't eat or drink unless you get them off the nest, which I did with her about 10 times a day. She also stole the others' eggs, which caused some breakage as she moved them about. I gave her a couple of baths in warm water, which somebody here suggested, but that didn't work with her, she's quite stubborn.
The chicken lady at the feed store suggested a remedy which I might try if she or any of my others do it again. Put them in a wire cage, or a crate with a suspended wire floor. No food, just water, for three days. The idea is that they won't be able to get comfy and be a bit deprived in the process. After three days, no more broodiness. Seems extreme, but....beats a cranky hen!
The chicken lady at the feed store suggested a remedy which I might try if she or any of my others do it again. Put them in a wire cage, or a crate with a suspended wire floor. No food, just water, for three days. The idea is that they won't be able to get comfy and be a bit deprived in the process. After three days, no more broodiness. Seems extreme, but....beats a cranky hen!
