Backyard Fowl Keepers

We have a flock of 7 chickens, including a Silkie who has been with us since she was very young. Unfortunately, her Silkie friend passed away when they were just a few days old, but she has managed well with the other chickens and roosts with them without any issues. Recently, as the weather has started to cool down in Massachusetts, Ive noticed some odd behavior from her.

At night, shes been isolating herself in the nesting box, which is unusual because she used to roost with the other chickens. She seems to be in the nesting box for long periods of time, sometimes sitting on other chickens eggs as well as her own. Shes also been making some hissing and odd noises while in the nest, which has me wondering if shes cold or broody. Im unsure if shes seeking warmth or if shes just exhibiting typical broody behavior.

My question is: will she continue to lay in the nesting box even without eggs if shes broody, or could she be trying to stay warm? We had planned to use a plug-in brood plate for extra warmth when it gets colder, but its not that cold yet. Usually, we move her back to the roost with the others, but Im wondering if I should leave her in the nest since shes alone and I feel bad for her.

Weve also been planning to add a couple of new chickens, including another Silkie, in the spring when one of them goes broody. Our plan was to introduce the chicks by sliding them under the broody hen and taking out the non-fertile eggs, since we dont have a rooster. But in the meantime, Im wondering whether shes cold or broody, or maybe a bit of both.

Were also working on weatherproofing the coop. This weekend, we plan to cover the run with plastic, closing off one side where the roosts are while leaving the other side uncovered for ventilation. The coop has vents on both the north and south sides, and I can open a window during the day if more ventilation is needed.

Any advice on whether shes cold or broody, or what we can do to keep her comfortable in these cooler temperatures? Would it be better to leave her in the nest, or should I continue moving her back to the roost with the other chickens? Also, if there are any other tips for winterizing the coop and keeping my flock cozy.

Id appreciate the help!

Broody behavior can sometimes be confused with coldness, but from your description, I think your Silkie is more broody. The hissing, staying on eggs, and isolating herself all point to her trying to hatch eggs. Silkies often prefer to stay in the nest when theyre broody, and they can do fine in cooler temperatures as long as they have food and water nearby. If youre concerned about the cold, the heat plate is a great idea. Otherwise, let her continue with her broodiness until spring.

She could definitely be broody. If shes only staying in the nest at night, she may feel warm enough for now, but you can add the heat plate to ensure shes comfortable once the temperature drops. If she resists being moved back to the roost, let her stay in the nest. You could also try placing some eggs (fertile or not) in the nest to encourage her to settle in more comfortably.

I would say she's broody. The hissing and staying in the nest for extended periods are clear signs. Silkies are very prone to being broody, and she probably feels safe and secure in the nest. You could use the heat plate when it gets colder, but I don't think she's at risk right now if she's just in the nest at night. If you want her to return to the roost, try moving her gently, but if she resists, just leave her in the nest.

From what you're describing, I believe your Silkie is more likely broody than cold. If she's isolated herself in the nesting box and making those noises, she's showing classic broody signs. It's great that you're planning to add another Silkie in the spring,this could really help her feel more comfortable. For now, try leaving her in the nest if she seems content, and if it does get colder, the heat plate should be a good addition.

Sounds like broody behavior to me, especially with the extended time she's spending on the eggs. If she's staying warm enough and getting up occasionally for food and water, she's probably not cold. You could move her back to the roost, but if she resists, I would leave her to do her thing. The plan to add more hens in the spring sounds great! That might help her break her broodiness too.

It's very likely she's broody. Silkies are notorious for their broodiness, and they can act very differently when in that state. Hissing and sitting on eggs (even if they're not hers) is a clear sign. I would try not to disturb her too much. If you're concerned about the cold, the heat plate should work as long as the temperature dips. Otherwise, just let her continue her brooding, as she likely feels secure in her nesting box.

If she's still active during the day and just staying in the nest at night, I wouldn't be too concerned about the cold. Silkies are sensitive to temperature, but they usually settle themselves into the roosts if they're cold. Broody behavior can mimic seeking warmth, but it's more likely she's trying to hatch eggs. I'd recommend keeping the heat plate for when it gets colder, and leave her in the nest if she's comfortable.

It sounds like your Silkie is most likely broody. Broody hens tend to stay in the nest for extended periods and can act possessive of the eggs, hissing or making noises when disturbed. If she's laying in the nest with no eggs, she's probably not cold,she's just doing her broody thing. You could try moving her back to the roost at night, but if she's determined to stay in the nest, leaving her there may help her settle.

I think your Silkie is likely broody. She's probably feeling secure in the nesting box and is trying to hatch eggs (even if they aren't hers). As long as she's still eating and drinking and isn't shivering, she's likely not cold. Silkies are quite adaptable, and if the weather does turn colder, your heat plate should be a good option. You could try leaving her in the nest for now, as she may settle down there.