Can Mama Hens Count?

[cochinfan]

Do hens appear to know how many babies they have? I have a hen that had two chicks and I let them out with another hen that had seven chicks. Now one hen has one and the other hen has eight. I couldn't figure out which chick went with which hen and it didn't appear that the hens or chicks knew either. The hens don't get along so one hen was a bit hysterical. Also, I have a hen that insists on free ranging with two chicks. This morning I noticed she only had one with her.

This chick thing is very stressful. I think the next broody hen is going to get a cold shower!