Acquainting broody hen with three-day old chicks

[DebGilly]

I have three hens and no rooster. I've been wanting to replenish the flock anyway when one of my hens went broody. She's been very determined and faithfully sitting on eggs for three weeks. I've ordered seven new chicks that will arrive next Thursday at three days old. The broody hen is in a nesting box. I'd like to feed and water the new chicks when they arrive Thursday morning, then on Thursday night I will place them in the nesting box with her. Thoughts?

 

[sourland]

That's exactly how I would do it. Then go out early the next morning to monitor the situation.

 

[FrostRanger]

Your plan sounds good. Good luck and do let us know how it goes!

 

[DebGilly]

That's exactly how I would do it. Then go out early the next morning to monitor the situation.

thanks sourland. I'm in the third quarter of my first century.

 

[DebGilly]

The baby chicks arrived two days ago. My broody hen immediately took them in and she's been a very good momma. They are staying in the coop, but I have a videocam and can see that all is well and all chicks are thriving. When might momma take them on a trip outside of the coop?