Broody girl and one week old chicks

[Silver Chick]

I have new Hampshire hen who has gone broody for the past 2-3 weeks. She only started laying about a month ago and is determined to hatch these eggs. I can't find anyone in my area with fertile eggs so I was wondering if it is a good idea to put 1 week old chicks under her while she's not looking. I just wanted to know if it is a good idea or not. Will she reject them? She would be a first time mother as well so I was unsure. If yes,I have a breeder near me selling some silkie chicks so should i buy two or three?

Thank you -

 

[Judy]

She would probably take 3 day old chicks if she is truly broody, but week old is more of a gamble. If I bought them, I would be prepared to brood them myself. If you try it, put them under her at night, a bit after dark.