2 chicks died right after hatching....

[maranda]

Hi there...I am hoping someone can give me some insight. I have 2 broody silkies and hatched 2 beautiful chicks that are doing great little over a week ago. I have had two eggs hatch this last few days and neither one made it more than an hour. I noticed the mother pecking at these babies. The second one I got out of the brooder the second I saw this, but it was still to late. I have several more eggs I am trying to hatch and I don't want this to happen again...it so sad!

 

[Wol1]

Maybe she sees them as a threat to the existing chicks? Are they hatching alive and she's killing them? Don't know what to suggest other than a makeshift incubator and letting them get a little fluff and strength and then sneaking them under mom and watching. Here's one and there are others online: http://www.stormthecastle.com/how-to-make-a/how-to-make-a-homemade-egg-incubator.htm