How Long Will Hens Stay Broody

Some chicken traits are both admirable and frustrating Patience is an example

 

People often lack patience They grit their teeth waiting at a red light, and zoom off the second it turns green Instant gratification is expected Fortunately, in this fast-paced world, a broody hen teaches us the merits of calmness and patience

 

At one time, the only way to get new chicks was to let a broody hen warm egg for a 21-day incubation period Nature programmed hens to develop a maternal urge, usually in the spring, and raise babies  After filling her nest with fertile eggs she’ll fluff up

How to Tell if A Hen Can Brood Chicks Successfully

One of the best parts about raising chickens is the cute baby chick stage Fluffy, sweet chicks are part of the reason many people decide to get chickens in the first place If you’re raising chickens, you may have noticed a hen that spends more time than the other hens in the nesting box  If so, you likely have a broody hen  Let’s talk about what to look for in a hen to see if she can raise chicks successfully

What does ‘broody’ mean?

The term broody

Preparing for Baby Chicks

Preparing for Baby Chicks

Spring is almost here!

If you’re like me, you’re excited to add some chicks to your flock! (Personally, I am hoping to add some Welsummers and Cochins!) Whether adding new breeds, or re-stocking on your old favorites, preparation is key!

 

Go ahead and have all your set-up complete and ready before your chicks arrive That way, you won’t be scrambling last minute to go buy something they need Instead, you’ll have everything in order and you can just enjoy spending time with your new babies

1 Brooder

Whether an old stock