So...my broody hen surprised us and is hatching a couple days early, according to my calendar. The kids and I went out to check, and there were 2 dead chicks, 1 definitely alive and fluffy, and 1 that looks like it just hatched. 2 eggs are cracking. Question is...what do we do now?!? I scooped out the 2 dead ones....anything else, or just let mama do her thing? Should I put new bedding in, to get rid of the icky stuff from the dead ones, or just leave everything as it is for now? We set out chick feed and there's plenty of fresh water...oh, I'm so excited as are my kids. I'm assuming all we can do is wait and see? Thanks....I've love lurking around this board!
Leave her alone until her hatch is finished. When she gets up and takes the babies out for their first little walk then change her bedding. If you disturb her before the hatch is finished she may quit on you and the eggs.