Can you introduce new chicks to a hen that already has chicks

Snownow · Mar 10, 2016

About half a week ago I sneaked three chicks under my Ameraucana hen. Yesterday one died and I decided to get two more. Will she take to the new chicks as well? I have another broody but I have doubts about her. Should I try it and place them under the Ameraucana? Let me know....

nchls school · Mar 11, 2016

Snownow said:
About half a week ago I sneaked three chicks under my Ameraucana hen. Yesterday one died and I decided to get two more. Will she take to the new chicks as well? I have another broody but I have doubts about her. Should I try it and place them under the Ameraucana? Let me know....

If the new chicks are about the same age and coloration, there is a good chance she will accept them. I would try giving them to her during the day (only if the new chicks look very much the same) and see what happens ( hold the chicks near the hen. When they peep listen for the hen to cluck-calling them. Then try giving her one. You will know immediately if they're accepted. ). If that's a no-go try at night.

lazy gardener · Mar 11, 2016

Only she can answer that! I'm thinking that they would graft to her most likely within the first 48 hours. And only if they are just a few days old themselves. Wish you the best with it.

Snownow · Mar 11, 2016

Thank you! The hen has adopted them and all is well.

lazy gardener · Mar 11, 2016

That is awesome. That hen is worth her weight in gold. She's a wonderful broody!

Can you introduce new chicks to a hen that already has chicks

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