Poultry

Will all hens set on eggs?

The method of incubation (hatching from under a setting hen or from an incubator) has no effect on whether the hatchling hens will later nest and incubate a clutch of eggs. The tendency for setting on a nest of eggs is determined entirely by genetics and seasonal weather changes (primarily changes in lighting). The primary influence is an increasing day length. A hen will become "broody" and make a nest when the hormones causing broodiness are stimulated in springtime. In summary, the method used to hatch the chick has no effect on later mating or nesting habits of the hatchlings.