Chicken deficient Posted July 2, 2013 Share Posted July 2, 2013 My broody hen, Myrtle, doesn't seem to want to take her self off the nest at all. I have been taking her out myself, once a day in the morning, into the garden where she eats, drinks, has a scratch and a poo and then lets me know when she wants to go back to the nest. In the afternoon I offer her more food and water on the nest, which she happily takes. We are planning on going away for one or two nights. Our neighbour usually watches the chickens for me when we are not here, but I am worried about Myrtle being put off brooding if a 'stranger' takes her off the nest etc. She is in a rabbit hutch in the garage, with food and water, and the door into the garden open for natural light. Would I be better off leaving her visually checked, but physically undisturbed whilst we are away? How long can I leave her to look after herself? Would she eventually get off the nest when she really needed to? Thanks Worried chicken mummy Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Redwing Posted July 2, 2013 Share Posted July 2, 2013 The broody should be ok for a couple of days with not being moved. Some broodies will get up and move by themselves but even if she doesnt she will be ok Just check for mites before you leave, not eating for a couple of days wont harm her but mites will Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chicken deficient Posted July 4, 2013 Author Share Posted July 4, 2013 Thanks, no signs of mites on anyone! I'll make sure she has plenty to eat and drink just before we leave - I think I've managed to convince OH that we should only stay away one night, so it won't be so long for her. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
