SeasideChick Posted August 8, 2008 Share Posted August 8, 2008 I have had 2 broody hens: Babs was broody for about 5-6 weeks and then came out of it. Bridget was broody for about 5 weeks and then came out of it. Now, 2 weeks after Babs got over her broodiness, she's gone broody again! I have been advised to put her in a wire bottomed cage, so my husband has built one and it sits in their run (on paving, covered with aubiose). My children think I'm really cruel .... how do I explain to my 6 year old daughter who keeps crying over it, that it is for the best!!!! Also, do I leave her in this cage overnight (that's the chicken not the 6 year old ... lol ) ... or let the chook go to bed in the Eglu with the others???? Also, when she is in the cage thing, she is pacing up and down, up and down going bananas - and I think she's got a bit stressed cos her pooh is all runny (SORRY). BUT: when I let her out (thinking she's over it), she pecks around outside for a bit and then goes back to the nesting box. How long shall I leave her in the cage??? PLEASE HELP .... I want EGGS, not broody chickens!!! THANK YOU!!!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Egluntyne Posted August 8, 2008 Share Posted August 8, 2008 Leave her in the cage, day and night for a minimum of three days. Move it into a shed or similar over night to keep her safe from predators. Whilst it might appear cruel, it isn't and will do the trick. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ain't Nobody Here Posted August 8, 2008 Share Posted August 8, 2008 I've had to do this twice with Molly. You do feel cruel but you could explain to your daughter that it's more cruel not to do it as Babs would lose weight and may become poorly. Also tell her it's not fair to let Babs sit on eggs that can't hatch. I moved Molly in her cage into the shed at night. She was in it for 3 days and nights with some freeranging time during the day (I shut the eglu run so she couldn't get in - she did pace a lot but couldn't get to the nestbox). Molly actually didn't seem too distressed by being in the cage so I'm sure that must make it harder for you . You say your cage is in the run - have you raised it off the ground? This was our setup: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SeasideChick Posted August 8, 2008 Author Share Posted August 8, 2008 Yes, the "cage" my husband built is off the ground ... well ... the wire bottom is raised off the ground. I'll put her in there again tomorrow and leave her there for 3 days and see what happens. Thanks for your suggestions regarding my daughter ... I've tried to explain but she is just so sensitive over animals ..... you know how it is!!! Thanks again for all replies Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
