Biddy hen and hatchery chicks

[grannysmith]

Have 3 biddy hens in the hen-house and a dozen hatchery chicks (day old) due on Wed. Does anyone think that I could isolate a biddy with the chicks to brood them instead of setting up the brooder? My hens always have successful hatches (jump out of nest as soon as one hatches and leave the rest of the eggs) so I know they're good mamas. Have two brooder cages in the henhouse already otherwise they have to go into the playroom under lights and the cats have to be in the garage.

 

[Wildflower_VA]

Are any of the biddies broody right now??? They have to be already broody and have been sitting on eggs for at least a week before they will take care of the chicks. If they are not "in the mood" they will not raise the chicks.

 

[grannysmith]

Thanks for the info - all three are sitting on eggs right now for at least 4-5 days. I'll clean up the brooder houses and put everybody in. Think they will do a better job than a brooder in the house. Actually I'm thrilled to get to keep the mousers working in the house.

 

[grannysmith]

Thanks for the info - all three are sitting on eggs right now for at least 4-5 days. I'll clean up the brooder houses and put everybody in. Think they will do a better job than a brooder in the house. Actually I'm thrilled to get to keep the mousers working in the house.