How big should cage for bantam mama and 4 chicks be?

[christinethemac]

I have a bantam frizzle hen that hatched 4 bantam chicks a couple weeks ago. I now have them all in the coop with the rest of the flock, but the mama and 4 chicks are kept separate in a caged area. How big does that caged area need to be for them?

Also, how many bantams can be comfortably housed in my 4 x 8 coop?

Thanks.

 

[Folly's place]

I use a big dog airline crate for broodies and babies for a week or so, before letting them out with the flock. BE CAREFUL! Bantam babies can get through some of the cage wire doors, and also chicken wire. Other adult chickens are likely to kill them if this happens. Make sure that they can't escape mama hen!!!
I allow at least 4 sq. ft. per bantam, more, in the coop. Extra space makes for less stress, and happier birds.
Mary

 

[lazy gardener]

Agreed with Mary. Given the penchant for bantams to go broody, more space is better!

 

[chickens really]

I integrate ASAP...Try it...Momma will protect them.Crucial to get them integrated before Momma weans...