A broody hen may even pull out her own feathers to improve her nest. This is my hen, Charlene, when she went broody in fall of 2023. (Journal video by Lacey Vilhauer.) ...

A broody hen is in it for the long haul—usually around 21 days, the natural hatching period. But if there are no chicks coming, and she keeps doing this on repeat, it can wear her down.

The woman was stunned.

Within a short time, the hens will naturally accept him.” If, however, the flock acts more aggressively toward the rooster — pulling tail feathers or drawing blood — take things more slowly.

Hatching your own chicks with a broody hen is an adventure that combines the wonders of nature with the charm of traditional farming. My year/old Easter Egger, Peach, ...