The other hens won’t leave the nesting hen, is this ok?

[Trevor T]

I have four 7 month old silkies and only one has just started laying but has already gone broody. I gave a clutch of eggs to her and she has been doing a good job nesting but the three other hens have been standing there staring ever since. They even sleep in front of the box staring at her at night. It’s almost been a complete 24hrs now and they haven’t left her side. Is this normal? Should I be concerned? Why are the other hens doing this?

 

[floppysquirrel04]

Do you only have one nest box? They might just want to lay in it, if so they’ll get over it. They usually pick a favorite one, they’re probably trying to wait for their turn.

 

[Trevor T]

Do you only have one nest box? They might just want to lay in it, if so they’ll get over it. They usually pick a favorite one, they’re probably trying to wait for their turn.

There are three nest boxes and the other three hens haven’t started laying yet But maybe they were inspired to start.

 

[sourland]

It is generally best to deny access to the nest site to other hens. In their attempt to share brooding duties they may inadvertently crack the eggs. In my experience co brooding and staggered hatches cause many problems.

 

[Trevor T]

It is generally best to deny access to the nest site to other hens. In their attempt to share brooding duties they may inadvertently crack the eggs. In my experience co brooding and staggered hatches cause many problems.

Yeah that’s what I was worried about, that they were waiting for their chance to help. I have a small second coop but it isn’t as warm as the first but I’ll figure something out. I’m in AZ And the night time low for the week is 45.