Surrogate Hens
Did you know that chickens can be surrogate mothers? They can! The fact is, if a hen is broody (won't get off her eggs) she will attempt to hatch any eggs that you leave in the nesting boxes. Egg color, size, species; it doesn't matter. A broody hen just wants to sit!
When I learned this fun fact, shortly after our venture in to chickens, I decided to give it a shot. I desperately wanted Lavender Orpingtons but really didn't want to risk purchasing expensive chicks that might not make it past shipping. I lucked out when I found an urban farmer selling fertile eggs just a hour from us. We placed these fertile eggs under an already broody hen and she did all of the work for us!
If you're thinking of adding to your flock and one of your hens is broody, I highly recommend utilizing this natural process designed by our Creator to raise up your next generation of happy, healthy hens. When chicks are raised naturally by a hen they usually do not need a medicated feed because they are exposed to all the germs present in the coop from day one which builds their immune system faster. Here are a few tips to help your mama hen successfully raise your chicks...
If your chickens free-range and nest where they please be sure to get your hen moved to a quiet area that is safe from predators.
Move water and food close to your broody hen and keep an eye on her health. Some mamas are so devoted they forget to eat (remind you of any other species?).
If you have children helping you with your chickens mark your eggs with a sharpie! A big X worked for us. If you have other hens laying in the same nesting box you may want to do the egg collecting yourself or at least warn your little ones. Mama hen can get fairly protective of her treasured eggs so she won't hesitate to give a good peck!
Mark your calendar for 21 days. Even though its only 3 weeks it's like waiting for any other baby on the farm. So exciting that you'll find yourself counting down the days! Have your camera ready too. The process is fascinating!
Good luck and Happy Hatching!