What to do broody hens and nest box height

[encoreman]

First broody pullets actually as they are only 7 month old BCM's. Question near the time they should be hatching what to do with the nest box height? I am concerned that the chicks may hurt themselves if the fall out onto the coop floor. I have raised day old chicks, but this is first time for broodies. Thanks for any input. Mac

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

You need to be around as they hatch as sometimes a chick jumps out and gets chilled or killed by other birds. After most or all hatch, I move them to the floor in a fenced area for a few weeks until the chicks get stronger, and the flock gets used to them.

 

[lazy gardener]

Many folks move the broody to a safe area before letting her have her hatching eggs. This ensures that she is committed to setting. Often when a broody gets moved, that is enough to break her broodiness. But, of course this ONLY happens when you WANT her to stick to the nest! So, I would let her set on fake eggs for a few days, move her to her safe spot, and block her in for a few days (low nest that is blocked off from intrusion by flock mates) then, only if she sticks to the new nest would I give her eggs to hatch.

If that didn't work, I'd do what I could to make her chosen spot safe: block other birds away from that nest, perhaps put a nice thick cushion of hay under the box when hatch time draws close.

 

[centrarchid]

Note nest height of about 42". Chicks can handle fall fine. Bigger concern is they cannot unite with hen upon leaving nest or are isolated from her too long when temperatures low or conditions wet.