Have a first time broody Narragansett turkey who has hatched out a clutch of eggs, on a hay nest in a doghouse. 7 poults, now about 12 - 7 hours out of the shell. I'm not sure what to expect from her in terms of behavior, maternal care, when she will try to take the poults places and do things, etc... the first time I hatched turkeys was last year, and an experienced mother hen was in the driver's seat.
What should I expect from my new turkey family over the next couple of days?
Mainly, I want to be able to make sure I provide for their needs, prevent harm to the chicks, and make it easy for the hen to do the right thing.
While she was broody, I would take her out occasionally to feed and poop; last time was on Friday. Should I try this again anytime soon? Factors I am worried about: the wrath of the mother turkey, the welfare of the chicks while she is on break, VS. the welfare of the chicks if she eventually decides to take matters into her own hands (the doghouse is closed off with wire right now to keep chicks from falling out - 6 inch drop - and other things from getting in). So far, no outward sign of the chicks, they are all peacefully snoozing under their mother and do not appear to be walking yet.
Thanks for any guidance.
Best - exop
PS. Have left one unhatched, likely unviable egg under her, to encourage her to stay in place
What should I expect from my new turkey family over the next couple of days?
Mainly, I want to be able to make sure I provide for their needs, prevent harm to the chicks, and make it easy for the hen to do the right thing.
While she was broody, I would take her out occasionally to feed and poop; last time was on Friday. Should I try this again anytime soon? Factors I am worried about: the wrath of the mother turkey, the welfare of the chicks while she is on break, VS. the welfare of the chicks if she eventually decides to take matters into her own hands (the doghouse is closed off with wire right now to keep chicks from falling out - 6 inch drop - and other things from getting in). So far, no outward sign of the chicks, they are all peacefully snoozing under their mother and do not appear to be walking yet.
Thanks for any guidance.
Best - exop
PS. Have left one unhatched, likely unviable egg under her, to encourage her to stay in place
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