It is best to leave, and leave them alone, and let them work it out. I know how hard it is, but most failures are due to people interfering and upsetting the broody. She may give them a peck, leave her be. If the chicks are good an cold, they are going to be diving under her, peeping madly. Let them chill outside so she can hear their peeping. That and the movement under her, is what signals the broody hormone to set, to switch to the broody hormone to take care of them.
When they naturally hatch, think what happens. First you can hear the chicks start to peep. Then movement begins underneath her. But then the chicks are tired and they rest and dry out. If you chicks are cold, and it is dark, they too are going to move under her, burrow in, get comfy and sleep, stopping the peeping to an occasional peep. That is what you want.
Most people want to see what is happening, they just want a peak, and that can really upset the hen, and she can reject them. Do not interfere for 12 hours, and you will be golden.
My grandfather a cattle rancher of some repute, once told me, "They know more about being a cow, than I ever will.." I think that applies to chickens too.
Mrs K
When they naturally hatch, think what happens. First you can hear the chicks start to peep. Then movement begins underneath her. But then the chicks are tired and they rest and dry out. If you chicks are cold, and it is dark, they too are going to move under her, burrow in, get comfy and sleep, stopping the peeping to an occasional peep. That is what you want.
Most people want to see what is happening, they just want a peak, and that can really upset the hen, and she can reject them. Do not interfere for 12 hours, and you will be golden.
My grandfather a cattle rancher of some repute, once told me, "They know more about being a cow, than I ever will.." I think that applies to chickens too.
Mrs K