Can broody hen raise chicks outside?

[HenOnAJuneBug]

Watching hens raise their chicks is the best thing about raising chickens IMO. My hens have their chicks free ranging outside the coop and run on day 2, if the hatch is done. It's really something to watch.

 

[Cindysrescue]

My two broody hens have their 2 week old chicks outside free ranging all day. At first I would bring them inside to their brooder when the chicks got too tired. But as they get bigger and stronger the less they need the resting time. We have a lot of grackles right now so I have been spending a lot of time outdoors with them. It is really situational. My little family of hens and chicks are happiest outside.

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

I do it all the time. Keeping predators out is key. I try to have cover patches so hens do not take broods too far away from core of protected area.

X2
I've had many bride successfully raised by hens who free ranged the property I was on at the thine.