5 Broodies! What happens when chicks hatch??

[PamB]

I had three go broody about 2 weeks ago. I decided I'd let them have four eggs. The three original broodies have been taking turns on different eggs. Every time I go check under them, to make sure they didn't steal more eggs to sit on (the four are marked), the eggs are always under a different hen. LOL. They all appear to be developing well. Now, tonight, I have two more sitting out there with them. One of them kept trying to steal eggs when I was checking them. She was so funny.

What happens when they hatch? The last time I did this, I had one broody that I separated from the flock (in the coop) and that worked out well. Should I separate all 5? The orginal 3? Just one?? Do you think they would raise the chicks together?

 

[Pinky]

If you allow them, they will raise the chicks together. I had three hatch 20 eggs once. Two took the chicks that already hatched out to feed while the third sat on the eggs that were still hatching.

 

[PamB]

Awww...how sweet! I think I will let them raise them together and just keep a close eye on them. Thanks for the response.

 

[kandooshe]

You can let them together with all mamas in a separated area, but try to watch them from time to time because sometimes they fight, but I think its the right choice to let them all together..
keep forward ,,, good luck

 

[dandelionheart]

That is so sweet...

Kinda like mama kitties.

I'd just let it go to see what happens - if it works out like that it would be such a wonderful experience to witness!

 

[Beamer48532]

I had 2 Silkie hens go broody, first one , then the second. The first to hatch chicks took the chicks, and the second hen stayed with the eggs to sit. Once they were all hatched, there were no problems, just all grew up together! Very cute!

Beamer