Why do I have non-broody Hens /

[Judy]

She does not need to have a bare spot to regulate temp. (Never heard that one before.) Many will pluck feathers from the breast and line the nest with them. My broody does this but does not pluck herself bare.

Sounds like you are doing fine. She will pretty much take care of things herself.

I don't agree with separating the broody after the eggs hatch. A good mama will protect her babies from the others. It is true that sometimes they don't do a good job and the babies suffer, but if you separate, you will have to keep the babies separate til they are full size, and I'm not going to fool with that. Besides, I want my flock to be strong and capable.

I did have my broody separated while setting, just to keep the others from pestering her.

Personal choice.

 

[monathequeen]

Thanks,
I don't recall saying that I would seperate her from the new babies. I think that was a mis-understanding. Of course she needs to be with them until she no longer wants to be. I dont intend to seperate mom and I will introduce the new chicks when they are the same size as the other adults however, mom will be with the "gang' when she's ready and the chicks no longer need her.
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