I spend a lot of time on the broody hen threads. I haven't actually had a broody yet but I have this mind set that if I know enough and want it bad enough I can will it to happen. ;) anyway what I have gleaned is that if a hen is for sure broody she will take chicks that are a few days old...
Ben, I have been hanging out here for awhile reading through. Your story is inspiring. I finally have something to add to the conversation! Have you considered sand for your brooder? I love it. It's easy to clean. I use a small collander to scoop out the little poops. It drains well. I can't say...