The state of broodiness in hens, characterized by a strong maternal instinct to incubate eggs, often necessitates intervention from poultry keepers. This intervention aims to discourage the hen from remaining on the nest for extended periods without actively laying, thus halting the unproductive use of resources. For example, removing eggs regularly and disrupting the hen’s nesting behavior are common strategies.
Addressing broodiness is important for maintaining egg production and overall flock health. A broody hen will cease laying eggs, impacting the supply. Prolonged broodiness can also lead to weight loss and decreased health in the hen, as she prioritizes nesting over foraging. Historically, various methods, from simple nest modification to more elaborate isolation techniques, have been employed to manage this natural, yet sometimes undesirable, behavior.