2 hens incubating 2 eggs

[lynettelemaster]

I currently have two broody hens sitting on two eggs in the same nesting box. One of the eggs has started pipping. The other egg should start anytime. I was going to remove just one of the hens to raise the chicks for safety of the chicks and also so I don't have to put the whole flock on starter feed. Should I let both hens raise the chicks or just pick the one who seems more maternal. I'm wondering if they would fight over the chicks.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

It could go well or really bad. You will have to make those decisions as you see how they react to the chicks. I have had two hens raise chicks, and other times neither claim them and I have to remove the chicks for their own safety.

 

[chickengeorgeto]

I predict that the two hens will become jealous and fight each other for the privilege of brooding the chicks. Then again they may not. However, the odds are 2 to 1 against everything turning out like you expect or want it too.

Chickens just don't think like humans, if chickens think at all.