Best way to brood

[Lisa G.]

So here's the situation. I have 9 hens that have lived together for a long time. Then I got two young chickens, one of which died. The big girls have been beating up the newcomer (a silkie) - so she is now in her own private coop.

I have 4 chicks coming next week. 2 bantams purchased to keep the silkie company - and 2 standard hens.

2 of my big girls have been broody for about 2 weeks.

Here are my questions:

1. Can i put the 2 bantam chicks in with the silkie and a heating plate? Is it best to try to keep them together so they bond to the silkie? the silkie is VERY docile.

2. If I do that should I try to put the other two under one of the broodies? or 1 under each broodie?

3. Should I put all 4 in with Silkie?

any and all advice appreciated.

 

[Cyprus]

I would do 1 and 2, with one chick under each broody.

 

[Lisa G.]

Thank you very much. I appreciate the advice!

 

[BigBlueHen53]

You probably already know to put the young'uns under the broodies at night, right?

 

[Lisa G.]

yup - i have been reading the forums here and understand that that is the time to do it!