Broody hen stopped the day my new chicks arrived

[LaFleche]

Be aware that they might get picked on and even get killed by the other hens if not separated for at least the first few days.

 

[castlefarms]

Thanks all. I so so appreciate all the feedback and heads up.

My layout of coop is a bit complicated for this adoptive momma situation and auntie hens but we’re making it work.

Ophelia (or Momma Oph as we lovingly call her) accepted all the babies with no major hiccups - mainly just me obsessing over her pecking behavior a little.

She’s eating and drinking with them basically from her nest, which is near the other nesting areas my other hens like to lay in.

I currently have aunties locked out into the run and they’re freaking out not having access into the coop, presumably to lay. Should I move momma and babies into the newly constructed secure smaller run within the run (day and night?) or just put a little mesh/wire barrier around them inside the coop and open the door so the other hens can get in, say hi, and lay?

A tad worried about sleeping arrangements tonight for them all..

But other than that all is well and Ophelia is a great first time momma! Couldn’t haven’t done it without your help!

 

[Wyorp Rock]

Glad she's accepting them.

Is there a way you can section off the area she's currently in? That would probably be better. She looks quite content at the moment, but after a day or two, I would expect her to want to start moving about with the chicks.

 

[castlefarms]

Glad she's accepting them.

Is there a way you can section off the area she's currently in? That would probably be better. She looks quite content at the moment, but after a day or two, I would expect her to want to start moving about with the chicks.

Thank you, yes, this is what we decided on! Bought some hardware cloth and made a rudimentary cage around them so the others can come in now.

When she starts showing interest in stretching their legs I’ll take down and they can all free range together. Can’t wait

They’re as happy as clams for the time being!

 

[Wyorp Rock]

Thank you, yes, this is what we decided on! Bought some hardware cloth and made a rudimentary cage around them so the others can come in now.

When she starts showing interest in stretching their legs I’ll take down and they can all free range together. Can’t wait

They’re as happy as clams for the time being!

They do look happy.

I hope everything goes well