Broody and week-old chicks not left nest

[MD]

Hi! I snuck some week-old chicks under my broody BO last night and she seems to have accepted them just fine. She has been broody for probably three weeks or maybe a little over (I couldn't shake her!) and seems to be dealing well with the chicks. I'm just concerned she's treating them as newly hatched chicks when they really aren't and need food and water. They seem to be a little weak to me, but they started acting like that as soon as I snuggled them up to her so it's hard to tell. Should I show the chicks the food and water (right next to them) and hope Mom follows? Or should I just let them be and pray she gives up on her imaginary eggs soon?

 

[sourland]

She is treating them as newly hatched chicks - she is programmed to wait 24 to 36 hours after hatching to leave the nest site. I would definitely make sure that they get out to drink and eat immediately.

 

[iwiw60]

She is treating them as newly hatched chicks - she is programmed to wait 24 to 36 hours after hatching to leave the nest site. I would definitely make sure that they get out to drink and eat immediately.

Totally agree....put on a long-sleeve shirt and gloves (you might need 'em if she's feisty!!) and dip the chicks' beaks in the water, etc. Have you set up water and feed close by?

 

[MD]

Moved the food and water right in front of her face and took all four chicks out (wish I'd thought of the gloves!!). They were very hungry! Everybody including Nellie ate and drank and is much happier. All snuggled back in. I think everything is going to work out great!! Thank you so much for the help!

here are the girls! three olive eggers and the little golden laced wyandotte on the end!

 

[iwiw60]

Moved the food and water right in front of her face and took all four chicks out (wish I'd thought of the gloves!!). They were very hungry! Everybody including Nellie ate and drank and is much happier. All snuggled back in. I think everything is going to work out great!! Thank you so much for the help!

here are the girls! three olive eggers and the little golden laced wyandotte on the end!

What adorable little fuzzy-butts!

Over the next few days you might move the feed/water a few inches away each time...why? That way your broody will get up and move a little more. I'm sure she has to poop, and boy-howdy it'll be a gross one!! Peeeuuuwww!! So you forgot your gloves, eh? Told ya!!