What if the broody won't take a break?

[wild chick]

Still new at this. If I don't see a broody poop by 4 pm I gentle lift her off the nest and put her down in front of the water. She is always happy to eat, drink, stretch and poop, then hurries back to the eggs. How long should I let her go without reminding her to get up? I don't want her to get weak or dehydrated or poop the nest! It's her first clutch, my 2nd broody. The broody last month did the same thing, wouldn't get off the nest on her own until about day 15. (She successfully hatched and now has 4 chicks a month old) Both are year old hens (barely a year old) and it's their first time. I hate to baby sit them, but I don't want to be negligent. Suggestions? Broody #2 has another 7 days to go.

 

[Poultrybreeder]

She might be coming off when you are not paying attention to her, but if you like, you can still take her off for a while, it seems she doesn't mind

 

[Hope Hughes]

With mine the closer to the and they got the less they got off the eggs. Whenever I have a broody hen I put her in a "nursery" so its her area and have the water and food pretty close to her nesting box. They don't eat or drink much when they are setting. But I do make sure it is all very close to them so they don't have to go far for it. I have had about 10 awesome hatches. Each hen is different though and their first hatch is always the most nurvious for her and you. She might be afraid to get off them too long. I agree with the post above.. She could be getting off when no one is around.

 

[wild chick]

Thanks for the replies! She could be getting off while I'm not there, but the reason I think she isn't is because when I put her down in front of the water she drinks and drinks and drinks, then she dives into the food and when she poops it's huge. I'd much rather not worry about her and let her do everything on her own. Is once a day the norm?

 

[chickens really]

Some Hens will set for 3 days before getting off the Poop and feed...Depends on the time of incubation too...Meaning embryo development ...i just provide food and water and never worry about my Hens...

 

[wild chick]

Yup, I guess I'm over-worrying since these are my first chickens with their very first clutches it's like I'm a new mom too! Thanks for the input!

 

[Hope Hughes]

I still worry about all my chickens and their babies... And I am sure I always will worry.. They are a big part of our family and I couldn't see life without them now.