Allotment Gardening Advice Help Chat

Poultry and Pets => The Hen House => Topic started by: cathangirl on May 19, 2009, 12:29

Title: For how long can a broody hen leave the eggs uncoverd?
Post by: cathangirl on May 19, 2009, 12:29

I have a broody hybrid.  At the moment she is still laying her daily egg and is very protective of any other eggs in "her" nest.

In general, she is popping out just in the afternoon for a while.  She even ignores treat-time, when she must hear what's going on by the noises the other seven girls make.

I have tried to discourage her and been resisting trying to buy 2 or 3 fertile eggs, but she seems more determined than ever after a week.  The Mother in me is feeling great sympathy for her.

Therefore, does anyone know where I might buy some fertile eggs for her to try and hatch, please?

We can house her in a small breeding run.

cathangirl

Title: Re: For how long can a broody hen leave the eggs uncoverd?
Post by: Roughlee Handled on May 19, 2009, 12:48

http://shop.ebay.co.uk/items/Pet-Supplies__hatching-eggs

Title: Re: For how long can a broody hen leave the eggs uncoverd?
Post by: Kate and her Ducks on May 19, 2009, 13:49

But if you can find some locally you will get a better hatch rate if they haven't been through the post in my experience.

Title: Re: For how long can a broody hen leave the eggs uncoverd?
Post by: Vember on May 19, 2009, 13:54

I always go for the buy it nows on ebay and have had excellent hatch rates, min 3 out of 6 max 5/6 :)
I just feel that the people offering for bids are just after making money  >:(


Sarah :)

 

Title: Re: For how long can a broody hen leave the eggs uncoverd?
Post by: cathangirl on May 19, 2009, 14:39

Many thanks for your replies. 
I must admit, I'd be happier if I had an incy as back-up - just in case her staying power gets up and goes half way through.   ???
cathangirl