LittleBoPeep Posted July 2, 2008 Share Posted July 2, 2008 Miss Pepperpot - Tinkerbell has decided not to come out of the cube, she's sitting on all the eggs once they are laid and doesn't want to move even when I pick them up. Her feathers go up and she gets all cross - it is sweet but what to do. Do we wait it out or shut cube door? I'm sure I read somewhere about putting a broody hen in cold water. Its been done a million time but some wise words would be appreciated. Thanks. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
beach chick Posted July 2, 2008 Share Posted July 2, 2008 if she's just started today, and she's already laid, turf her out and shut the nest box door. she might forget about it... or if she continues you can try things like putting a football, flowerpot or icepack in the nesting box. I tried dunking in water but it didnt work for us. if she's seriously into it the only thing that ever works for us is a broody cage, we use a wire puppy crate on bricks and bung her in that (near the others) for up to 3 days with water only. I am too soft tho and often give up too quickly... good luck! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
moochoo Posted July 2, 2008 Share Posted July 2, 2008 I would advise setting up a broody cage. If you've got a cat carrier or something similar pop her in it with some food and water. Ideally it needs to be off the ground so the air can get to her and cool her down. She would need to be in it for a minimum of 3 days. If you don't have anything suitable for a broody cage then dunking her belly in cold water several times a day and restricting access to the nest should help but may take longer. You're not alone, my Dotty is back in the broody cage now after only 4 weeks since her last visit! Good luck Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Egluntyne Posted July 2, 2008 Share Posted July 2, 2008 Broody article **here**. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Snowy Posted July 2, 2008 Share Posted July 2, 2008 Definitely worth turfing her off the nest first and not letting her back. I've had a few half hearted broodies - fluffed up and growly, but they've snapped out of it if not allowed to sit. Obviously if she's still determined then you will need to resort to the other methods Good luck! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LittleBoPeep Posted July 2, 2008 Author Share Posted July 2, 2008 Thanks for the tips. I might see how she goes and then try and make some sort of broody cage for her. She's out at the moment munching lettuce leaves but is taking herself off very early in the evening and the other don't go to be til 10ish. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
