| I've learned to always separate my broodies who are setting on a nest of eggs. Mostly because other hens will crawl in with her to lay MORE eggs, or other broodies get jealous they fight over who gets to sit on the nest--and eggs get broken. Also if there is a hen sitting on the eggs at ALL times, the eggs don't get their 'rest' when mama goes out to eat, drink, poop & dustbathe that they need and nature has programmed into the process. As rockguy said, it doesn't matter WHY she's eating the chicks, just that she is. :( Silkies are so sweet they are no match for bullies. Chickens are omnivores who naturally eat small living things such as mice and lizards, so you really can't fault her for doing what comes naturally. Check to make sure your girls are getting enough protein in their diet, though. I'd isolate your broody hen & eggs, Velvet ~:> |
