When do hens have babies?

[Willow's Meadow]

Like what time of year? If there is a rooster will they have them anytime of year or just a certain time?

 

[stuckinthecity]

Usually the dual purpose hens(not overly broody) hatch out chicks in the spring/early summer. Breeds like silkies and games will go broody all times of the year. I don't think having a rooster affects their instinct to set and raise babies.

 

[sourland]

Hen's don't "have babies." They brood eggs and hatch chicks- a matter of semantics, but a significant difference. Hens if of a broody breed will want to set whether or not there is a rooster present. Some of the more broody breeds like cochins or silkies may want to set at any time. Others are more seasonal and may only want to set from spring through summer. If you have a broody hen and do not have a rooster, she will accept any fertile eggs that you purchase and place under her.