To hatch successfully
When you want to hatch eggs there are two ways, an incubator or using a broody hen .
Hens go broody when their hormones tell them it’s time to sit on eggs. During this time they will not want to leave the nest ( don’t panic they leave for about 10-30 minutes to eat and drink)
They will also look like puffer fish when disturbed and will often try to bite you .
Most times they will sound like angry dinosaurs as well .
If you want them to hatch eggs here are the steps
1. Find a broody hen.
2. Place eggs under hen .
3 wait and candle on day 5,7,14,18 to ensure everything is okay .
4. Do not over handle or disturb the nest .
5. Don’t panic if Chicks hatch a day or two early or late that’s normal.
And that’s it . Follow for what to do after the chicks hatch #chickens #motherhen #hatching
Having raised chickens myself, I've found that using a broody hen to hatch eggs is not only rewarding but also surprisingly straightforward if you follow some practical tips. The hen naturally manages humidity and warmth by turning the eggs regularly, which is crucial for embryo development. One important thing I've learned is to handle the eggs gently and only when necessary, such as when candling on days 5, 7, 14, and 18 to check on the embryos' progress. This helps you spot any infertile or problematic eggs that need to be removed to prevent contamination. During the three-week incubation period, patience is key—21 days can feel like a long wait! The broody hen’s behavior changes as she becomes more protective and less willing to leave the nest except for short breaks to eat and drink. This is normal and should not be interfered with too much. I’ve also noticed the broody hen can become quite defensive, sometimes puffing up and even biting if disturbed. Respecting her space helps reduce stress for both the hen and yourself. When the chicks finally hatch, they might come out a day or two early or late, which is completely normal. I've found it helpful to create a safe, warm brooder area for the chicks once they are out and to gradually introduce them to food and water. Watching the natural process unfold under a mother hen’s care offers invaluable lessons in animal behavior and provides healthy, well-adjusted chicks. Overall, allowing the momma hen to do the work aligns with natural instincts and often results in higher hatch success compared to artificial incubators. If you’re new to hatching, definitely consider this method for a hands-off, effective way to raise chicks from the start.