I've got a hen setting on nine eggs. I would like to separate her from the other hens, as she tends to try and gather their daily eggs as well and cannot sit properly on all. Can I cage her, as she's not moving a bit these days?
How much space does a broody hen need?
Can you just move her a bit so she is a little more seperated from the others? Do you have sperate nesting boxes?
I do the "dark box" nesting area, so it's one dark area in which they all lay. I wasn't thinking ahead very well.
Maybe a cardboard box on it's side so she's a little more confined. When you lift her off to get some food and water, make sure you have to box right close so you can put it in place when she's busy.
i found that if i waited until they were asleep at night you can move them anywhere, well 9 out of 10 times. if i can't move her i didn't let her set eggs.
a broody hen will always steal eggs and put them under her even if she has to throw out the eggs she's been sitting on. but to her an egg is an egg. so it is best to put her alone if possible.
they do need an area away from the main flock for a few days after the chicks hatch that gives her time to teach the babies a few things and they know who their momma is.
Thank you!