Broody with chicks

[Buttnugget1]

Hello
I have a broody that hatched 4 chicks.
I just purchased 18 more layers and are the same age as hers. ( 1 month )
From what I understand I shouldn’t put them into the coop cause it would be to many for broody to look after.

Just wondering when I should incorporate the flock? Can I do it sooner seeing as the flock is already used to the other chicks?
Cheers

 

[DobieLover]

Hello
I have a broody that hatched 4 chicks.
I just purchased 18 more layers and are the same age as hers. ( 1 month )
From what I understand I shouldn’t put them into the coop cause it would be to many for broody to look after.

Just wondering when I should incorporate the flock? Can I do it sooner seeing as the flock is already used to the other chicks?
Cheers

You can raise the 18 chicks in the coop in a built-in brooder using a brooder plate if you have the space. If you build it with 1/2" hardware cloth and a top so no one can get in or out the rest of the flock can see the chicks and get to know them as they grow up.
After a week of being in the look don't touch brooder in the coop, fashion two small doors about 3" wide x 5" high. Then when the rest of the flock leaves the coop for the day, close the pop door so they can't get in and let the 5 week old chicks out to explore the coop and get to know the "lay of the land". During this time, herd several of the chicks back into their brooder through the doors so they know how to get back in there easily. After about 1 hour, open the pop door and allow any of the adult flock to com in and just sit and observe.
As long as no one is getting attacked, leave them to it.
My second batch of built-in brooder raised chicks were roosting with the adult flock at 7 weeks old. They did it all on their own.
PS - you wouldn't have been able to give ANY of the store bought chicks to the broody hen as she would attack them. She knows they are not hers and don't belong.