Broodiness

Broodiness, in a general sense, is a natural maternal behavior in birds that leads a female to want to incubate eggs. It is most commonly observed in domestic hens and is driven by hormonal changes that promote nesting, protection of eggs, and a reduced interest in feeding or egg production. While the term is most closely associated with chickens, similar broody states can occur in other bird species.

The behavior is primarily linked to hormonal changes, especially elevated prolactin levels, which promote incubation instincts. Day length, age, and genetics influence the likelihood of broodiness, with certain breeds more prone to this state. Environmental cues such as available nesting sites and the presence of eggs can also trigger or reinforce the behavior.

Typical signs include lingering on the nest for long periods, fluffed and settled posture, reluctance to leave the nest, gathering or defending eggs, reduced appetite, and a pause in egg laying during the broody period. A broody hen may peck at perceived intruders and can become irritable if disturbed. The duration varies but often lasts about two to three weeks and coincides with the normal incubation cycle of fertilized eggs.

Impact and management: Broodiness reduces egg production and can lead to weight loss or stress if prolonged. In domestic poultry operations, broodiness is managed by removing eggs to break the incubation drive, providing nesting disruption, or placing the hen in a broodiness-breaking setup such as a wire cage for a period. If eggs are fertilized, some producers allow the broody hen to incubate and hatch chicks as part of breeding programs. Some breeds are selected to be less prone to broodiness.